The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Saadia Zahidi as its next director general. The Lahore-born economist will become the first woman to lead the global aviation organization. Her appointment marks a historic milestone for both IATA and the international airline industry.
According to an official IATA announcement, Saadia Zahidi will assume office on November 1, 2026. She will succeed Willie Walsh, who is set to step down on July 31. Until Zahidi officially takes charge, IATA Chief Financial Officer Sandrine Le Borgne will serve as acting director general.
With this appointment, Saadia Zahidi becomes the ninth director general in IATA’s history. She currently serves as Managing Director at the World Economic Forum (WEF), where she has held several senior leadership roles. IATA said her global experience and strategic leadership will help guide the organization during a period of major change for the aviation sector.
Saadia Zahidi has an impressive academic background. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Economics from Smith College. She later completed an MPhil in International Economics at The Graduate Institute. She also holds a Master of Public Administration degree from Harvard University.
In addition to her leadership roles, Zahidi is a published author. She wrote Fifty Million Rising, a book that explores the growing economic role of working women in Muslim-majority countries. Her work has focused on economic development, labour markets, education, and the future of work.
IATA praised Zahidi’s experience at the World Economic Forum. The association said her expertise in global policy, business, and economic issues will strengthen its work with airlines and governments worldwide. It added that her leadership will support the industry’s long-term priorities and future growth.
In her acceptance statement, Zahidi said she is honoured to lead IATA. She expressed her commitment to working closely with member airlines, governments, and industry partners. She said collaboration will be essential to encourage innovation, improve resilience, and support sustainable aviation.
She takes over at a challenging time for the global airline industry. Airlines continue to face geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, and rising fuel costs. At the same time, the sector is working toward achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Zahidi has previously highlighted the importance of keeping climate goals at the centre of economic planning. She has argued that sustainability should remain a priority despite global trade pressures and economic challenges.
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The appointment of Saadia Zahidi reflects IATA’s focus on experienced global leadership. Her international background and economic expertise are expected to help the association navigate future challenges while supporting innovation and sustainable growth across the aviation industry.
