Pieter Elbers (54) is a seasoned aviation leader with over 30 years of global industry experience. Pieter landed in India in September 2022 as the CEO of IndiGo, India’s largest and fastest growing airline, leading it towards becoming a global aviation player. He blended in well, proudly embodying India by IndiGo. Pieter regularly posts on LinkedIn about his journey.

A firm believer in aviation as a driver for economic growth, social progress and cohesion, he leads 40,000+ passionate aviation enthusiasts at IndiGo who are proudly Giving wings to the nation, by connecting people and aspirations. IndiGo welcomed over 113 million customers last year, across 125+ domestic and international destinations. With over 2,200 daily flights and a fleet of 400+ aircraft, IndiGo has a simple philosophy: offer fares that are affordable, flights that are on time, and provide a courteous and hassle-free travel experience across its unparalleled network.

Under Pieter’s visionary leadership, the airline has embarked on the next stage of the incredible IndiGo journey, from India’s leading domestic airline to a global giant. In line with the growth and development of India as a global powerhouse, IndiGo aims to double in size and scale by the end of the decade. The historic order of 500 A320 family aircraft, introduction of XLR in 2025 and the A350 widebodies in 2027 will ensure further growth. Executing the strategy of taking IndiGo ‘Towards new heights and across new frontiers’, IndiGo is spreading its wings. At the core, IndiGo remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainability, DEI and social responsibility.

Pieter’s foundation and experience were formed in his impressive 30-year tenure at KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, where he started his career in 1992 managing aircraft loading on the ramp. He held several executive positions in The Netherlands, Italy, Greece and Japan, equipping him with a profound understanding of diverse markets and cultures. During his 8 years as President and CEO, since 2014, he led KLM through an intensive transformation towards its centennial in 2019 and thereafter guiding it through the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic with resilience and clarity. In his time as CEO of KLM, he was also an executive of the Air France-KLM Group, and held various supervisory and advisory positions.

Beyond his IndiGo role, Pieter is a member of the Board of Governors at IATA, and holds the position of Chairman as of June 2024, playing a pivotal role in his contribution to the aviation industry. A Dutch national with a distinguished academic background, including executive programs at IMD and Columbia University, Pieter has been honoured as a Commander in the Order of Orange-Nassau, one of the highest royal decorations in The Netherlands.

Off the runway, Pieter believes in a healthy balance of mind and body, running regularly to stay fit. He is married and they are blessed with three children. Pieter has a deep appreciation for history and cultures, which fuels his global outlook. With his inspiring leadership, IndiGo is not just flying higher, it is reshaping the future of aviation in India.