Low-cost carrier IndiGo has roped in Amitabh Kant, the former Kerala-cadre IAS officer, former G20 Sherpa and ex-CEO of NITI Aayog, as a non-executive director on its board.
This move comes as IndiGo continues to expand its footprint beyond domestic skies and eyes a larger role in shaping India's presence in global aviation. The airline currently holds the top spot in the Indian aviation market in terms of passenger share.
Amitabh Kant is no stranger to steering big ideas. An Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 1980 Kerala cadre batch, he has spent more than four decades working on national policy, economic planning, and global negotiations. His most recent role as India’s G20 Sherpa saw him coordinating with leaders on international issues ranging from climate finance to digital infrastructure.
His earlier stint as CEO of NITI Aayog lasted over six years, where he reportedly played a key part in major government programmes like the Green Hydrogen Mission and the push for electric mobility.
With this new role at IndiGo, Kant’s focus appears to be shifting from international summits to air routes and airport terminals.
In a statement issued by IndiGo, Kant said he looks forward to supporting the airline’s next chapter one that ties India more closely with global trade, tourism, and investment. He believes IndiGo can open up new markets and help turn Indian airports into international hubs for business and connectivity.
It’s unclear how directly involved Kant will be in operational decisions. As a non-executive director, his role will likely be advisory. But his presence on the board could signal the airline’s growing interest in policy alignment, international diplomacy, or public-private collaborations.
