The International Air Transport Association appointed Pakistani-born Saadia Zahidi as its Director General on July 23, making her the first woman to lead the global body that represents over 370 airlines accounting for 85% of global air traffic. Zahidi will assume office on November 1, 2026, becoming IATA’s ninth Director General.
Zahidi, who holds Swiss and Pakistani nationalities, currently serves as Managing Director at the World Economic Forum and has spent more than two decades there. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Smith College, an MPhil in International Economics from The Graduate Institute, and a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University.
Her appointment marks a watershed moment for an organization that has never been led by a woman in its operational history. Zahidi will also be the trade body’s first director general in more than 40 years to come from outside the airline industry. She previously authored “Fifty Million Rising,” which explores the growing role of working women in the Muslim world.
Roberto Alvo, Chair of the IATA Board of Directors and CEO of LATAM Airlines Group, said that Zahidi’s experience at the World Economic Forum will enhance IATA’s role as the voice of the world’s airlines at a moment of significant change driven by technology and geopolitics. Zahidi said she looks forward to working with IATA member airlines, governments and industry partners to strengthen the future of aviation and expand the benefits of global connectivity.
Zahidi assumes leadership during a challenging period for the aviation industry as airlines face geopolitical and economic pressures, rising fuel costs, and efforts to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Willie Walsh, IATA’s current Director General, will conclude his duties on July 31, 2026, and will be succeeded by Interim Director General Sandrine Le Borgne until Zahidi takes office.
