The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Saadia Zahidi as its next Director General, effective November 1, 2026. She will become IATA’s ninth Director General and the first woman to lead the organization.
Zahidi joins IATA from the World Economic Forum (WEF), where she has worked for more than two decades and currently serves as Managing Director and Member of the Managing Board. She will succeed Willie Walsh, who will step down on July 31. IATA Chief Financial Officer Sandrine Le Borgne will serve as Interim Director General until Zahidi takes office.
IATA Board Chair and LATAM Airlines Group CEO Roberto Alvo said Zahidi’s leadership experience would strengthen IATA’s role as the voice of global airlines at a time when technology and geopolitical developments are reshaping aviation.
Zahidi described aviation as critical infrastructure for economic growth, trade, tourism, investment and employment. She said her priorities would include strengthening cooperation with airlines, governments and industry partners, supporting innovation, improving resilience and advancing sustainable growth.
At the WEF, Zahidi founded and leads the Centre for the New Economy and Society. She also co-authored major reports including the Future of Jobs and Global Gender Gap reports.
Zahidi studied at Smith College, The Graduate Institute and Harvard University. She holds Swiss and Pakistani citizenship.
