IndiGo appoints former FAA chief Mike Whitaker as independent director
April 26, 2025
IndiGo has announced plans to appoint former Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) chief Michael Whitaker as an independent director on its board.
Whitaker stepped down from his role as head of the US aviation regulator in January this year.
Whitaker’s appointment comes at a time when IndiGo, already India’s largest airline by market share, is continuing a global expansion.
Rahul Bhatia, Managing Director of IndiGo, said: “Mike’s deep and varied industry and government experience will contribute significantly to having an effective and diverse Board.
“His focus on efficiency, operations, air safety as head of the FAA will reinforce IndiGo’s longstanding focus on operating at the highest levels. Also, his extensive experience in international governmental affairs will be hugely instrumental as IndiGo continues its global expansion.”
Commenting on his appointment, Whitaker said: “I am deeply honoured to have the privilege of joining the board of the world’s fastest growing airline on its way to become a global aviation giant. India is one of the world’s great travel hubs with unlimited growth potential. I look forward to working with the board to continue the growth of this world-leading Indian company.”
Before his most recent tenure leading the FAA, Whitaker’s career spanned three decades in aviation. He previously served as Chief Operating Officer at Supernal, Hyundai’s advanced air mobility division, as Deputy Administrator at the FAA, and as Senior Vice President of Alliances, International & Regulatory Affairs at United Airlines. He began his career in aviation law at Trans World Airlines in New York.
