Former Air India CMD Pradeep Singh Kharola returns to Air India as Executive Director to Chairman, says airline sources

Kharola previously served as Chairman and Managing Director of Air India from 2017 to 2019, when the airline was under government ownership. He later served as Secretary in the Ministry of Civil Aviation and was associated with the airline's privatisation process.

Air India was fully privatised in 2022, after the Tata Group won the bid for the airline. The privatisation of Air India was first approved in 2017, with the government putting out an Expression of Interest (EOI) in 2018.

His appointment comes at a time when Air India is preparing for a leadership transition, following an announcement by Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Campbell Wilson that he will step down in the coming months.

Meanwhile, Air India Express commenced direct flights between Pune and Amritsar, marking the launch of a new service and providing travellers with convenient access to Amritsar, renowned for its spiritual, cultural, historical, and culinary experiences. The inaugural flight departed from Pune on June 15.

The direct connection offers convenient travel options for leisure travellers, pilgrims, students and business travellers.

According to a press release, travellers can now book their flights, 'Gourmair' hot meals, Xpress Ahead priority services and more on the airline's website airindiaexpress.com, mobile app, and all major booking channels.

The new service operates daily, departing Pune at 01:20 hrs and arriving in Amritsar at 04:10 hrs. The return flight will depart Amritsar at 05:00 hrs and arrive in Pune at 07:50 hrs.

With the launch of this service, Air India Express now operates about 105 weekly flights from Pune, connecting the city directly to 12 destinations, including Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. From Amritsar, Air India Express operates 24 weekly flights, connecting the city to Delhi, Dubai, Pune, and Sharjah. (ANI)