This man is the co-founder of India’s largest airline – Indigo, lest know his success story.
Success Story: The aviation sector is one of the toughest sectors where turning a profit is the most difficult part. But one man managed to do that and made his airline the largest in India, serving thousands of flyers daily. This story is about Rakesh Gangwal, co-founder of Indigo Airlines. Rakesh and Rahul Bhatia founded the airline in 2006. Let’s know his story.
Who is Rakesh Gangwal?
Rakesh Gangwal was born on July 25, 1952, in West Bengal’s Kolkata. He completed his schooling from Don Bosco School. In 1975, he earned a degree in mechanical engineering from IIT Kanpur and later completed his MBA from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania.
A Journey to CEO of United Airlines
In 1980, Gangwal started his journey into the world of aviation. His first employment was with Booz Allen and Hamilton Inc., where he worked as an associate. Later, he moved to work for United Airlines, where he excelled from a managerial position to strategic planner and ultimately becoming the CEO of the company. His professional journey didn’t stop there. From 1998 to 2001, he held the powerful dual role of CEO and chairman at the US Airways Group. His leadership continued even after this tenure – from 2003 to 2007. He led as chairman and CEO of Worldspan Technologies.
Donation of Rs 100 Crore to IIT Kanpur
In 2022, when Gangwal was at the peak of his success journey he didn’t forget his roots and donated Rs 100 crore to IIT Kanpur as a form of guru dakshina.
Rakesh Gangwal’s Net Worth
According to Forbes’s real-time billionaires list, the net worth of Rakesh Gangwal is USD 5.6 billion approx. Rs 1,68,26,77,34,20,00.
Indigo Airlines
Rakesh Gangwal, joined by his wealthy partner Rahul Bhatia, founded Indigo Airlines back in 2006. Today, the airline stands as India’s largest airline. Gangwal also went on to enrich his portfolio by joining the board of Southwest Airlines in 2024 and committing substantial investments to the company.