Air New Zealand ushers in a new era of leadership with a strong digital focus as Indian-origin executive Nikhil Ravishankar is set to take the helm this October.
Air New Zealand has announced the appointment of Nikhil Ravishankar as its next Chief Executive Officer, effective 20 October 2025. Currently serving as the airline’s Chief Digital Officer, Ravishankar’s promotion marks a strategic pivot toward innovation, customer-centricity, and future-proofing amid growing global competition in the aviation sector.
Born in India and raised in New Zealand, Ravishankar brings a wealth of experience in digital transformation, having held senior roles at Vector, Accenture, and Telecom New Zealand (now Spark). Since joining Air New Zealand nearly five years ago, he has spearheaded a sweeping overhaul of the airline’s technology systems, loyalty programmes, and customer experience platforms—laying a strong digital foundation for the airline’s next chapter.
“I’m both thrilled and humbled to be given this opportunity to lead Air New Zealand,” Ravishankar said in a statement. “This airline is an institution with a deep legacy but also a fantastic future. At the end of the day, we are a people business – purposeful, ambitious, and deeply rooted in Aotearoa New Zealand. I’m excited to help shape what this next stage of Air New Zealand looks like.”
His appointment follows an international search and comes as outgoing CEO Greg Foran prepares to step down after nearly six years, having guided the airline through the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent supply chain challenges. Foran’s tenure included initiating a fleet overhaul and enhancing the premium business class product.
Chair of Air New Zealand Dame Therese Walsh said Ravishankar represents “a new generation of leadership.” She added, “We have always been bold and not afraid to adapt and lead. Nikhil brings the mindset and contemporary leadership we need to build on our strong foundations and focus on the future.”
Air New Zealand is currently navigating fierce competition in the Pacific from carriers like Qantas and major North American airlines. Under Ravishankar’s leadership, the airline has already introduced top-tier AirPoints membership options, enhanced customer-facing technologies, and revamped its digital backbone.
In a symbolic regional crossover, Ravishankar’s appointment mirrors a growing India-New Zealand aviation partnership. Earlier this year, Air New Zealand and Air India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost air connectivity between the two countries. Plans include exploring direct flights by 2028 and launching a codeshare arrangement connecting key cities in India, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand.
As the aviation sector continues to rebound post-pandemic, Ravishankar’s elevation signals Air New Zealand’s clear intent: to become a more connected, tech-forward, and customer-driven airline ready to meet the demands of the future.
