The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Saadia Zahidi as its next Director General, making her the first woman to lead the global airline body in its history.
Zahidi will take up the role on 1 November 2026, succeeding Willie Walsh, who concludes his tenure on 31 July 2026. IATA Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President Corporate Services Sandrine Le Borgne will serve as Interim Director General until Zahidi assumes the position.
New leadership for global aviation
Zahidi joins IATA from the World Economic Forum (WEF), where she has served as Managing Director and a member of the Managing Board. During more than two decades at the organisation, she led initiatives focused on the future of jobs, economic growth and global competitiveness.
IATA Board Chair and LATAM Airlines Group CEO Roberto Alvo said Zahidi’s experience in global policy, economics and international collaboration would help guide the association through a period of technological and geopolitical change affecting the aviation sector.
Focus on collaboration and sustainable growth
Zahidi said she was honoured to lead IATA at a pivotal time for the airline industry, describing aviation as critical infrastructure for economic growth, trade, tourism and investment.
She said her priorities would include working with member airlines, governments and industry partners to strengthen collaboration, support innovation, build resilience and advance sustainable growth.
IATA represents more than 370 airlines, accounting for around 85 per cent of global air traffic.
