Pankaj Kumar Karn

About Pankaj Kumar Karn

As a visionary and futuristic-thinking Airline Engineering Executive with over 25 years of aviation experience, I specialize in architecting next-generation Airline Engg./MRO strategies that transform maintenance operations into data-driven centers of excellence. My career has been defined by leading high-stakes engineering functions—from MCC and Line/Base Maintenance to CAMO and Leasing—with a singular focus: maximizing asset reliability while optimizing total cost of ownership.Currently serving as Chief Engineer, I lead multidisciplinary teams across B737NG, MAX, and A320 family fleets. I have a proven track record of steering organizations through strategic realignments, including the seamless expansion into new fleet types and the successful acquisition of FAA/EASA Part 145 and AS9100 certifications. As a former core leader of an Aircraft Lease Induction & Return Committee, I bring deep technical and commercial acumen to aircraft transitions, ensuring value protection and regulatory integrity.My leadership philosophy is rooted in building bridges between technical execution and business strategy. Holding an Aerospace MBA from IIM Bangalore & Toulouse Business School, I excel at translating complex engineering challenges into financial discipline, having directed OPEX/CAPEX initiatives that lowered cost per flying hour through strategic vendor partnerships and lean processes.Core Competencies:Strategic MRO & Engineering Leadership: Driving digital transformation (Ramco M&E), SMS implementation, and operational excellence.Fleet Technical Management: B737NG/MAX & A320 Family (DGCA B1 Licensed; Structural Repair Approvals).Commercial Acumen: Aircraft lease inductions/returns, SGHA/IATA contract negotiations, and warranty recovery.Safety & Compliance: Negligible Critical Audit findings across DGCA, FAA, EASA, and ISO standards.Whether revamping a Maintenance Control Centre to achieve 99% dispatch reliability or mentoring the next generation of aviation professionals, I am passionate about delivering consistent, high-quality results in a dynamic industry. Open to executive leadership opportunities where I can drive innovation, safety, and profitability in Airline Engineering or MRO operations.

Experience

1. Chief Engineer

   Ai Engineering Service Limited

   Dec 2024 — Present · Thiruvananthapuram, IN

Education

• TBS Education

  Master of Business Administration (MBA), Aviation & Aerospace MBA

  2015 — 2017

• Indian Institute of Management Bangalore

  Master of Business Administration (MBA), Aviation & Aerospace MBA

  2015 — 2017

Skills

• Airline Management
• Analytical Skills
• Aircraft Maintenance
• Management
• Business Analysis
• Marketing Management
• Airworthiness