GENEVA: Global aviation is set for a historic leadership change as Pakistan-born Saadia Zahidi takes charge as the next Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), breaking a decades-old barrier by becoming the first woman to lead the world’s largest airline industry body.
Zahidi will assume office on November 1, 2026, becoming IATA’s ninth Director General. She will join the organisation from the World Economic Forum (WEF), where she currently serves as Managing Director and a member of its Managing Board.
Roberto Alvo, Chair of the IATA Board of Directors and CEO of LATAM Airlines Group, said the board was pleased to appoint Zahidi, praising her extensive leadership experience and global expertise.
He said Zahidi’s background at the World Economic Forum would strengthen IATA’s role as the voice of the global airline industry at a time when aviation is undergoing major technological and geopolitical changes.
Alvo added that her experience would help the organisation address future challenges while supporting airlines through innovation, collaboration and sustainable growth.
Zahidi has spent more than two decades at the World Economic Forum, where she served as Managing Director and a member of the Managing Board.
She founded and currently leads the WEF’s Centre for the New Economy and Society and has contributed to several major global reports, including the Future of Jobs Report, Future of Growth Report, Global Gender Gap Report and Chief Economist Outlooks.
Speaking after her appointment, Zahidi said she was honoured to contribute to IATA’s mission of representing, leading and serving the global airline industry.
She highlighted aviation’s role in supporting economic growth, trade, tourism, employment and global connectivity, adding that cooperation, innovation and sustainable development would remain key priorities.
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 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 (MPA) from Harvard University.
She holds both Swiss and Pakistani nationalities.
Zahidi’s appointment marks a significant milestone for the aviation sector as she becomes the first woman to lead IATA. Her leadership begins at a time when the global airline industry continues to navigate challenges related to technology, sustainability and changing international dynamics.
