GENEVA, Switzerland: In a landmark appointment, Pakistan-born executive Saadia Zahidi has been named the next Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), becoming the first woman to lead the global airline industry body when she assumes office on November 1, 2026.
Zahidi, who holds Swiss and Pakistani nationalities, will be IATA’s ninth Director General and joins the aviation organization from the World Economic Forum (WEF), where she currently serves as Managing Director and Member of the Managing Board.
IATA has appointed Pakistani-Swiss economist Saadia Zahidi as its next director general from Nov 1, making her the association’s first female chief.https://t.co/7H9eM2DDIo
— StarBiz (@starbizmy) July 24, 2026
“The board is very pleased to appoint Saadia Zahidi as Director General of IATA,” said Roberto Alvo, Chair of the IATA Board of Directors and CEO of LATAM Airlines Group, in a press statement. “Saadia’s long and outstanding experience at the World Economic Forum will enhance and strengthen IATA as the voice of the world’s airlines. Global air transport is a trillion-dollar industry that has and continues to change the world for the better.”
A visionary leader for a changing industry
Alvo emphasised that Zahidi’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the aviation sector, with technology and geopolitics poised to reshape the industry. He noted that she brings the right skills to effectively articulate what the industry needs to continue connecting people and economies safely, efficiently, and sustainably.
“Saadia’s appointment comes at a moment of significant change in the international environment. Technology and geopolitics, among others, will reshape the industry in the future, and Saadia brings the right skills to effectively articulate what our industry needs to continue connecting people and economies safely, efficiently, and sustainably,” Alvo added.
“She’ll bring a fresh perspective to IATA that will grow its support for the airline industry on the foundations of IATA’s well-established technical, financial, and data capabilities.”
Two decades of global leadership at WEF
Zahidi has spent more than two decades at the World Economic Forum, where she founded and currently heads its Centre for the New Economy and Society. She is also the founder and co-author of several influential WEF publications, including the Future of Jobs Reports, the Future of Growth Reports, the Global Gender Gap Reports, and Chief Economist Outlooks.
Her extensive work on economic development, workforce transformation, and gender equity has positioned her as a globally recognized thought leader in shaping the future of economies and societies.
Congratulations, Saadia @Zahidi.
First woman ever appointed Director General of @IATA in its history – leading a trillion-dollar industry, 370+ airlines, 85% of global air traffic.
A Pakistani, representing the world’s skies. 🇵🇰🚀 pic.twitter.com/tGD6xZrz5X
— Farhad Jarral (@FarhadJarralPK) July 24, 2026
Zahidi outlines vision for aviation’s future
Expressing gratitude for the appointment, Zahidi said she was honoured to help advance IATA’s mission at a pivotal moment for the industry.
“I am honoured to help advance IATA’s mission to represent, lead, and serve the airline industry at this pivotal moment,” said Zahidi. “Aviation is critical infrastructure for economic growth, trade, tourism, jobs, investment, and opportunity. In a rapidly changing world, IATA’s role in bringing the industry together to collaborate through trusted standards, essential services, and advocacy has never been more important.”
She emphasised her commitment to working with member airlines, governments, and partners to build on IATA’s foundation while embracing innovation, strengthening resilience, and advancing sustainable growth.
“My top priority will be working with the IATA team and with the industry to build aviation’s future together,” she added.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Saadia Zahidi as its first female Director General, marking the first time a woman will lead the global airline industry’s largest trade body. https://t.co/QruiqIhfC4 pic.twitter.com/yZeC6mqNQD
— Nairametrics (@Nairametrics) July 24, 2026
An impressive academic background
Saadia Zahidi holds a BA in Economics from Smith College in the United States, an MPhil in International Economics from The Graduate Institute in Geneva, and an MPA from Harvard Kennedy School. Lahore-born Zahidi holds dual Swiss and Pakistani nationalities.
Read Also: Saudi Air Navigation Services Gains International Recognition from IATA
Her appointment represents a historic milestone not only for women in aviation leadership but also for Pakistan, as she becomes one of the highest-profile Pakistani-origin executives to lead a major global industry body.
