Pilotcenter.net News has officially announced Captain Wamildan Tsani Panjaitan as the new CEO of Garuda Indonesia, succeeding Irfan Setiaputra. The decision was finalized during a shareholder meeting on November 15, 2024. Panjaitan, a retired Indonesian Air Force pilot who previously held key positions at Lion Air and Batik Air, including interim CEO of Lion Air, is set to lead the national carrier towards improved financial performance and enhanced service quality. He expressed his commitment to strengthening Garuda's reputation as a flag carrier and transforming it into a globally recognized airline following instructions from Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.

This leadership change marks the second time in four years that Garuda has appointed a new CEO. Setiaputra, who was recognized for his "Inspirational Leadership in the Aviation Industry" by IDN Financials on the same day of Panjaitan's appointment, is credited with steering Garuda through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. During his tenure, Setiaputra successfully managed to reduce the airline's short-term liabilities and improve its financial standing through strategic debt restructuring initiatives.

Setiaputra took the helm at Garuda in 2020 after his predecessor, Ari Askhara, was dismissed for attempting to sneak a vintage 1972 Harley-Davidson motorcycle onto a Garuda Indonesia flight. The transition to Panjaitan's leadership represents a new chapter for Garuda Indonesia as the company aims to soar to new heights under his guidance.