Co-founder Praveen Iyer steps down as CCO on April 30; Anand Srinivasan assumes the role amid leadership churn.
Akasa Air has announced that co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer Praveen Iyer will step down from his role on April 30, 2026, marking another senior leadership exit at the fast-growing low-cost carrier.
The airline confirmed that Iyer will remain in office until the end of April to ensure a smooth and structured transition. Following his departure, co-founder and Chief Information Officer Anand Srinivasan will assume charge as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO). Akasa Air added that its IT function will now report to Chief Financial Officer Ankur Goel.
Iyer brings over 25 years of experience across commercial and aviation technology roles in India and overseas. As part of Akasa Air’s founding leadership team, he played a key role in shaping the airline’s commercial strategy and expansion following its launch in August 2022.
Commenting on his decision, Iyer said building Akasa Air had been a “defining journey,” adding that he was proud of the airline’s progress in a short span and confident about its next phase of growth.
Iyer’s exit adds to a series of senior-level departures over the past nine months. In October 2025, co-founder and Senior Vice President–International Operations Neelu Khatri stepped down, while other exits in the second half of 2025 included leaders handling long-term operations strategy, aircraft acquisition and leasing, and catering, according to reports.
Backed by the late investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala, Akasa Air has rapidly expanded its domestic and international presence. The airline has placed a firm order for 226 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft and currently operates a fleet of 33 aircraft. In FY2025, Akasa Air reported a 49% year-on-year increase in revenue, along with improved operating margins and lower unit costs excluding fuel.
The leadership transition comes at a crucial time for India’s aviation sector, as intensifying competition among low-cost carriers coincides with rising demand, fleet constraints and pricing volatility. How Akasa Air balances strategic continuity with executive churn will be closely watched as it enters its next growth phase.
Source: People matters
