By Prince Offeh
Saadia Zahidi Becomes IATA’s First Female Director General | 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 officially assume the role on November 1, 2026, becoming IATA’s ninth Director General. She joins the organisation from the World Economic Forum (WEF), where she serves as Managing Director and a member of the Managing Board.
Meanwhile, current Director General Willie Walsh will conclude his tenure on July 31, 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.
IATA Board Chair and LATAM Airlines Group CEO Roberto Alvo welcomed the appointment, describing Zahidi as the right leader for an industry undergoing rapid transformation.
According to Alvo, her extensive experience at the World Economic Forum, combined with her expertise in global economic trends, technology and international policy, will strengthen IATA’s ability to represent airlines worldwide.
He also praised Walsh for guiding the organisation through the COVID-19 crisis. He said Walsh helped IATA emerge stronger while expanding its global membership.
For her part, Zahidi described the appointment as an honour and pledged to work closely with airlines, governments and industry partners to strengthen global aviation.
She emphasised that aviation remains a critical driver of economic growth, trade, tourism, investment and employment. She also noted that IATA plays a vital role by promoting industry standards, providing essential services and advocating for airlines.
Looking ahead, Zahidi said her priorities include encouraging innovation, strengthening the industry’s resilience and supporting sustainable growth. She added that collaboration across the aviation ecosystem will remain central to expanding global connectivity.
Zahidi brings more than two decades of leadership experience from the World Economic Forum. During her tenure, she founded and now leads the Centre for the New Economy and Society. She also previously headed the organisation’s Global Communications Group, Global Programming Group and its engagement with academic institutions, civil society and international organisations.
In addition, she co-authored several influential World Economic Forum publications, including the Future of Jobs Report, Future of Growth Report, Global Gender Gap Report and Chief Economist Outlook.
Beyond the WEF, Zahidi served on the United Nations Secretary-General’s Panel on Women’s Economic Empowerment and the European Space Agency’s High-Level Advisory Group. She also authored Fifty Million Rising, a book that explores the growing economic influence of women in the Muslim world.
Zahidi holds degrees in economics and public administration from Smith College, The Graduate Institute and Harvard University. She holds both Swiss and Pakistani citizenship.
Saadia Zahidi Becomes IATA’s First Female Director General | AviationGhana
