AUCKLAND, New Zealand (Diya TV) — Air New Zealand has named Nikhil Ravishankar as its next chief executive officer. Ravishankar will replace Greg Foran, who has led the airline for five years.
Ravishankar is currently Air New Zealand’s chief digital officer. He joined the airline in 2021 and has led key improvements in its technology systems, loyalty programs, and customer experience. In his new role, he will lead the company into a new phase of growth and innovation.
“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. It’s a privilege to step into the chief executive role and take on that responsibility for our people, our customers, and our country.”
Greg Foran became CEO in February 2020 after a successful career at Walmart. He took charge just before the COVID-19 pandemic shook the global aviation industry. Foran helped steer the airline through one of the most difficult periods in its history.
Under his leadership, Air New Zealand managed to navigate the crisis, rebuild customer confidence, and position itself for recovery. He is set to step down in October 2025, marking the end of a transformative chapter for the airline.
Before joining Air New Zealand, Ravishankar was chief digital officer at Vector, New Zealand’s largest energy distributor. He also served as managing director at the global consulting firm Accenture. His background in digital strategy and leadership is expected to play a central role in shaping the airline’s future.
Air New Zealand Board Chair Dame Therese Walsh praised Ravishankar’s appointment, calling it a “new generation of leadership for the future.”
“In the nearly five years that Nikhil has been at Air New Zealand, he has gained a deep understanding of the aviation sector and the airline,” said Walsh. “He has also led major advances in the airline’s technology backbone, loyalty programme, and customer proposition.”
Walsh added that the airline is focused on “connecting our communities and country and the world, delivering value and excellence, and running a world-class airline that all Kiwis are proud of.”
Ravishankar will take over as CEO during a pivotal time for the airline. Air New Zealand is currently working on several major projects. These include the retrofit of its Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet and the arrival of new aircraft.
The airline is also pushing forward with its sustainable aviation program. One of its key goals is to test hybrid-electric aircraft in New Zealand. These efforts reflect Air New Zealand’s broader commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.
As the airline enters this new phase, Ravishankar is expected to bring a fresh perspective to leadership. His focus on digital transformation and customer experience will be central to the airline’s strategy in the coming years.
