Tata Sons on Monday  announced the appointment of Ilker Ayci as CEO & MD of Air India, effective April 1, days after the government completed the handover process of the airline to the salt-to-software conglomerate. 

"The board after due deliberations approved the appointment of Ilker Ayci as the CEO & MD of Air India. This appointment is subject to requisite regulatory approvals," Tata Sons said in a release.

Tata Sons Chairman N. Chandrasekaran, who was recently reappointed for a second 5-year term, was a special invitee to the  board meeting.

"Ilker is an aviation industry leader who led Turkish Airlines to its current success during his tenure there. We are delighted to welcome Ilker to the Tata Group where he would lead Air India into the new era," Chandrasekaran said.

Ayci, a former chairman of Turkish Airlines, is also on the board of the Turkish Football Federation, Turkish Airlines Sports Club and TFF Sportif Anonim Sirketi. 

He is also a  member of The Canadian Turkish Business Council and a Member of the US-Turkey Business Council, according to The Wall Street Journal. 

Ayci, 51, said he’s delighted and honoured to accept the privilege of leading an iconic airline and to join the Tata Group. 

“Working closely with my colleagues at Air India and the leadership of the Tata Group, we will utilise the strong heritage of Air India to make it one of the best airlines in the world with a uniquely superior flying experience that reflects Indian warmth and hospitality" he added. 

Air India currently controls over 4,400 domestic and 1,800 international landing and parking slots at domestic airports, as well as 900 slots abroad.