IndiGo appoints former FAA chief Michael Whitaker as Independent Director – ET TravelWorld

IndiGo, India’s largest airline by market share, has announced the proposed appointment of Michael Whitaker as an Independent Director, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals. Whitaker most recently served as Administrator of the USFederal Aviation Administration (FAA), the national aviation authority overseeing air safety, air traffic control, and operational standards across the United States.

Whitaker stepped down from the FAA in January 2025 after leading a period marked by technological reform, infrastructure modernisation, and evolving international air safety frameworks. His induction comes at a time when IndiGo is strengthening its global presence, adding international destinations and forging interline and codeshare partnerships.

“Mike’s deep and varied industry and government experience will contribute significantly to having an effective and diverse Board,” said Rahul Bhatia, Managing Director, IndiGo. “His focus on efficiency, operations, and air safety at the FAA aligns with IndiGo’s own operational priorities, while his expertise in international governmental affairs will be invaluable as we expand globally.”

Michael Whitaker commented, “I am deeply honoured to join the Board of the world’s fastest growing airline. India is one of the world’s great travel hubs with unlimited growth potential. I look forward to supporting the company’s global ambitions.”

In addition to his most recent role at the FAA, Whitaker brings decades of executive experience in commercial aviation. He previously served as Chief Operating Officer at Supernal, Hyundai’s advanced air mobility division, and as Deputy Administrator of the FAA. Prior to that, he held senior executive positions at United Airlines, overseeing alliances, international strategy, and regulatory affairs. He began his aviation career as a legal counsel with Trans World Airlines.

A private pilot, Whitaker holds a juris doctorate from Georgetown University Law Center and a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Louisville.

The appointment is seen as a strategic move as IndiGo looks to deepen its international connectivity and reinforce governance with global expertise, particularly in regulatory and airspace management.