Saadia Zahidi Appointed First Female Head of IATA

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — The Board of Governors of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Saadia Zahidi as director general of the organization. She will take office on 1 November 2026, becoming the association's ninth leader and the first woman to head IATA.

Prior to her appointment, Zahidi served as managing director and member of the Managing Board of the World Economic Forum (WEF). Incumbent IATA Director General Willie Walsh will complete his tenure on 31 July 2026.

During the transition period, Sandrine Le Borgne, IATA's chief financial officer and senior vice president for corporate services, will serve as interim director general.

Roberto Alvo, chair of the IATA Board of Governors and chief executive officer of LATAM Airlines Group, stated that Zahidi's extensive experience at the World Economic Forum will strengthen the association's role as the global voice of airlines.

According to Alvo, the appointment comes during a period of major technological and geopolitical changes that will shape the development of global aviation.

Alvo also thanked Willie Walsh for leading the organization during the post-COVID-19 pandemic period, noting that under his leadership, IATA strengthened its position and expanded representation of its member airlines.

Commenting on her appointment, Zahidi emphasized that it is a great honor to lead IATA at a pivotal moment for the industry. She noted that aviation remains a critical element of the global economy, driving trade, tourism, employment, and investment.

Zahidi stated that one of her key priorities will be working with airlines, governments, and industry partners to drive innovation, enhance the resilience of the aviation sector, and ensure its long-term development.

Zahidi worked at the World Economic Forum for more than two decades, where she founded and heads the Centre for the New Economy and Society. She also oversaw global communications, programming, and engagement with academia, civil society, and international organizations. Zahidi is the co-author of several WEF reports focused on the labor market, economic growth, and gender equality.

In addition, she served on the UN Secretary-General's High-Level Panel on Women's Economic Empowerment and the European Space Agency's High-Level Advisory Group.

Zahidi holds degrees in economics, international relations, and public administration from Smith College, the Geneva Graduate Institute, and Harvard University. She is a citizen of Switzerland and Pakistan.