Air New Zealand Names Nikhil Ravishankar as Next CEO

Air New Zealand has announced that Nikhil Ravishankar will succeed Greg Foran as Chief Executive Officer, with Ravishankar set to take up the role on October 20, 2025. Foran is stepping down in October after nearly six years at the helm during one of the most challenging periods in aviation history.

Currently, the airline’s Chief Digital Officer, Ravishankar, has been with Air New Zealand for almost five years, during which he has gained a thorough understanding of the airline industry and the organisation itself. He has also led significant advancements in the airline’s technology infrastructure, loyalty programme, and customer offerings.

Dame Therese Walsh, Chair of the Air New Zealand Board, stated that this appointment signals the start of a new chapter, reflecting the airline’s strong momentum and a fresh wave of leadership for the future.

"Across Air New Zealand, we are very clear on what matters most - connecting our communities and country to each other and the world, delivering value and excellence, and running a world-class airline that all Kiwi are proud of."

"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. The Board undertook an extensive international search and were delighted to see Nikhil come through the process so strongly. His ambition for the airline's future and his people leadership skills, coupled with his pursuit of excellence, digital literacy, global outlook and relationships, and his deep care for the airline and New Zealand shone through."

"Airlines will continue to face immense challenges, whether that's climate change, customer expectations, technology, cost pressures or geopolitics. Nikhil brings a fresh perspective that is grounded in New Zealand values and a deep knowledge of the airline and critical infrastructure across different sectors. He's not afraid to challenge how things are done and ask questions." 

"I'm both thrilled and humbled to be given this opportunity to lead Air New Zealand," says Ravishankar. "This airline is an institution with a deep legacy but also a fantastic future. It's a privilege to step into the CEO role and take on that responsibility for our people, our customers, and our country.

"Airlines are complex, and safety underpins every decision we make. I truly believe that New Zealand is one of the most innovative nations in the world and one of the greatest destinations to visit. Our airline is amongst the very best and I get to work with some of the most dedicated people in the country, from our cabin crew, engineers and pilots to our ground teams, corporate and digital teams behind the scenes. At the end of the day, we are a people business – purposeful, ambitious, and deeply rooted in Aotearoa New Zealand, and I'm excited to help shape what this next stage of Air New Zealand looks like," added Ravishankar.