02 May 2025
#1 May 2025: India Aviation Newsletter
Air India Earns GDP Certification for Pharmaceutical Cargo Handling
Air India has been awarded the prestigious Good Distribution Practices (GDP) certification for its Cargo division, making it the first Indian airline and one of the few in Asia to achieve this global benchmark for the safe and compliant handling of pharmaceutical products. The certification affirms Air India’s ability to manage time- and temperature-sensitive shipments with precision, reinforcing its role in supporting India’s vast pharmaceutical export sector. In FY 2024–25, Air India transported over 4,000 tonnes of pharmaceuticals globally. Ramesh Mamidala, Head of Cargo, said the certification is a “shot in the arm” for Air India’s specialised logistics capabilities.
Boeing Appoints New Engineering Leader for India Operations
Boeing has appointed Stacie Sire as Vice President & Managing Director of Boeing India Engineering & Technology Center (BIETC), and as Chief Engineer for Boeing India. Based in Bengaluru, Sire succeeds Ahmed Elsherbini, who now leads Boeing Global Engineering. In her dual role, Sire will oversee BIETC’s strategic direction, operations, and engineering development, supporting Boeing’s long-term growth in India’s thriving aerospace ecosystem. Her leadership aims to enhance local innovation and technical capabilities, particularly in areas like software engineering, digital aviation, and advanced systems.
IndiGo Appoints Former FAA Head Michael Whitaker to Its Board
IndiGo has announced the appointment of Mr. Michael Whitaker as Independent Director to its Board, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals. Whitaker most recently served as Administrator of the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), where he oversaw national air traffic operations and safety. IndiGo MD Rahul Bhatia welcomed the appointment, citing Whitaker’s global aviation and government expertise as vital for IndiGo’s operational excellence and global expansion strategy. His experience is expected to enhance the Board’s oversight in safety, efficiency, and international engagement.
Acumen’s Take
On Air India’s GDP Certification for Cargo
This certification is a landmark milestone for Air India’s cargo operations, placing it in a rare league of carriers globally capable of compliant pharmaceutical logistics. With India being a major global pharma exporter, the GDP endorsement boosts Air India’s credibility in high-value cargo transport and opens new doors for logistics partnerships and pharma supply chain integration.
On Boeing’s Leadership Transition in India
The appointment of Stacie Sire signals Boeing’s intent to accelerate innovation and localisation within India’s aerospace sector. Her dual leadership role ensures strategic and technical alignment as Boeing deepens its presence in engineering, manufacturing, and digital capabilities in India, particularly in Bengaluru’s tech corridor.
On IndiGo’s Appointment of Michael Whitaker
Bringing in a former FAA chief adds major credibility to IndiGo’s safety and international governance framework, especially as the airline scales its global footprint. Whitaker’s understanding of regulatory structures and international aviation policy positions IndiGo to navigate cross-border expansion and compliance with ease, while enhancing its corporate governance depth.
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