Saadia Zahidi Appointed Director General of Global Airline Body IATA

Pakistan-born executive Saadia Zahidi has been appointed as the next Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), becoming the first woman to lead the global airline industry body. She will assume office on November 1, 2026, succeeding as the organization’s ninth Director General after serving for more than two decades at the World Economic Forum (WEF).

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Currently a Managing Director and Member of the WEF Managing Board, Zahidi has led the organization’s Centre for the New Economy and Society and co-authored influential reports on jobs, economic growth, and gender equality. IATA Chairman Roberto Alvo said her extensive experience and leadership would help guide the aviation industry through technological, geopolitical, and sustainability challenges.

Expressing gratitude for the appointment, Zahidi said aviation plays a vital role in global trade, tourism, and economic growth. She pledged to work closely with airlines, governments, and industry partners to strengthen innovation, resilience, and sustainable development while expanding global connectivity. Zahidi holds degrees from Smith College, The Graduate Institute, and Harvard Kennedy School, and has both Pakistani and Swiss nationality.

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