In a decisive move signalling the next era of aviation leadership, Air New Zealand has appointed Nikhil Ravishankar as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 20 October 2025. The announcement comes as the airline continues to navigate a rapidly evolving aviation landscape, one shaped by digital innovation, sustainability pressures, and global competition.
A Digital Leader for a Digital Future
Ravishankar, who has served as Chief Digital Officer (CDO) at Air New Zealand since 2021, brings a strong background in technology, corporate strategy, and transformation. Prior to joining the airline, he held senior leadership roles at Vector Limited and Accenture, leading projects that integrated digital infrastructure and customer-driven technologies across large organisations.
Under his leadership as CDO, Air New Zealand made significant strides in digital transformation, from enhancing the Airpoints loyalty platform to modernising backend operations and introducing data-driven service improvements. These achievements have laid the groundwork for a more connected, agile, and customer-centric airline.
Board Chair Dame Therese Walsh described the appointment as a natural evolution for the airline:
“Nikhil represents the next generation of leadership for Air New Zealand combining a deep understanding of technology with a passion for people, sustainability, and service excellence.”
Following in the Contrails of Success
Ravishankar succeeds Greg Foran, who led Air New Zealand through the most turbulent period in modern aviation, the global pandemic. Foran’s tenure focused on stabilising operations and rebuilding profitability, and his legacy includes a strong balance sheet and renewed customer trust.
Now, the challenge ahead is not survival, but strategic growth. Air New Zealand is positioning itself as one of the world’s most sustainable and digitally advanced airlines, a mission that Ravishankar is uniquely equipped to continue.
Key Focus Areas Under His Leadership
- Digital Transformation
Leveraging data, automation, and artificial intelligence to improve efficiency, safety, and customer engagement. - Fleet Modernisation
Overseeing new aircraft deliveries and sustainability-focused upgrades, including next-generation Dreamliners and hybrid aircraft research. - Sustainability Leadership
Expanding Air New Zealand’s carbon-reduction efforts through sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) partnerships and operational innovation. - Customer Experience
Building seamless digital journeys that enhance both the physical and online travel experience for passengers.
A Broader Message for Asia-Pacific Aviation
Ravishankar’s appointment also reflects a regional trend: aviation leadership is increasingly being redefined by digital and data expertise rather than traditional operational pathways. This shift is evident across Asia-Pacific carriers seeking to balance profitability, resilience, and innovation.
For New Zealand and indeed for neighbouring aviation markets like Malaysia, Singapore, and Australia , this move sends a powerful signal. The post-pandemic aviation economy belongs to those who embrace technology, sustainability, and strategic collaboration.
A New Flight Path
As Nikhil Ravishankar prepares to take the helm, Air New Zealand stands at a crossroads between heritage and innovation. The airline’s next chapter promises to redefine what it means to be a national carrier in a digital, sustainable, and highly competitive global industry.
For industry observers and travellers alike, this appointment is more than just a leadership change, it’s the beginning of a new journey, where technology meets humanity at 35,000 feet.
Leave a Reply