The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Saadia Zahidi as its next Director General, making history as the first woman to lead the global aviation body since its establishment. Saidia is the eighth Director General and current Managing Director and Member of the Managing Board of the World Economic Forum (WEF), and will officially take office on November 1, the day IATA's ninth Director General assumes office.
Zahidi's appointment is a big step for the global aviation industry, replacing Willie Walsh, who will retire on 31 July and step into the role of the Chief Executive Officer of IndiGo next month. IATA's Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President for Corporate Services, Sandrine Le Borgne, has been named Interim Director General by the IATA Board of Directors for the transition period.
Saidia is a Swiss and Pakistani national with over 20 years of global leadership experience at the World Economic Forum. During her career at the WEF, she has actively participated in and contributed to discussions on economic transformation, workforce development and social progress. She is also the founder and director of the Centre for the New Economy and Society, which supports inclusive economic growth and society's readiness for the future of work.
IATA is a key player in promoting collaboration within the aviation industry, representing over 370 airlines globally in the areas of safety, sustainability, operational efficiency, and aviation standards. The appointment of Saidia coincides with the industry's passage through rapid technological developments, shifting passenger preferences and growing pledges on sustainable aviation.
Key Highlights
- First woman appointed to lead IATA in its global history
- Will officially assume office as Director General from November 1
- Brings over two decades of leadership experience from World Economic Forum.
In her remarks on the appointment, Saidia highlighted her dedication to collaborating with all aviation stakeholders to build the industry's future.
“Saidia is looking forward to working closely with the member airlines, governments and ecosystem of partners to expand on IATA's great work, keeping aviation connected, while remaining innovative, resilient and growing sustainably”.
When asked about her priorities in the role, Saidia said, "I will focus on the industry's future with the IATA team and industry, together expanding the benefits of connectivity to more people and economies around the world”.
In the announcement of the leadership changeover, IATA confirmed that Saidia will be the ninth Director General and the first woman to be the organization's leader. The association also announced that Sandrine Le Borgne will assume the management of the association while Saidia officially assumes office in November.
Zahidi's selection marks a historic occasion not just for IATA, but for the aviation industry as a whole, highlighting how aviation is increasingly placing a greater emphasis on inclusive leadership. Her wealth of experience in economic policy, innovation and multi-sectoral partnership will be key to helping IATA and its member airlines through the next chapter of aviation's development and ensure its resilience, sustainability and connectivity for the future.
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