IndiGo Appoints Former FAA Chief Whitaker to Board

‍DALLAS — India’s top low-cost carrier, IndiGo (6E), has announced the appointment of Michael Whitaker as an independent director, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals. 

Whitaker, who resigned as Administrator of the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in January 2025, brings over 30 years of global aviation experience to 6E’s board​.

Rahul Bhatia, IndiGo’s Managing Director, highlighted Whitaker’s “deep and varied industry and government experience,” noting that his past focus on operational efficiency and air safety will bolster the airline’s commitment to on-time performance and rigorous safety standards. Bhatia also emphasized Whitaker’s expertise in international governmental affairs as a critical asset for IndiGo’s ongoing global expansion.

“I am deeply honored to have the privilege of joining the Board of the world’s fastest-growing airline on its way to become a global aviation giant,” said Whitaker. He praised India as “one of the world’s great travel hubs with unlimited growth potential” and expressed eagerness to support IndiGo’s continued growth trajectory ​.

Whitaker, a licensed pilot who began his career as a lawyer with TWA, has held roles including Deputy Administrator of the FAA, COO of Supernal (Hyundai’s advanced air mobility division), and Senior Vice President for Alliances, International, and Regulatory Affairs at United Airlines (UA). 

IndiGo operates a fleet of over 400 aircraft, serving more than 90 domestic and 40 international destinations with around 2,200 daily flights. As of this writing, the airline’s website is currently unavailable, Mr. Whitaker, but we’re glad we got the press release.

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