Saadia Zahidi: Swiss Pakistani executive named IATA’s first female director-general

Saadia Zahidi has been appointed as the next director-general of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), becoming the first woman to lead the global aviation organization.

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IATA’s Board of Directors confirmed the appointment this week. Zahidi will assume office on November 1 as the association’s ninth director-general.

The International Air Transport Association represents more than 370 airlines, accounting for about 85% of global air traffic. The organization promotes safe, secure and sustainable air transport worldwide.

Brings extensive global leadership experience

Zahidi joins IATA from the World Economic Forum (WEF), where she serves as a managing director and a member of its Managing Board.

During her time at the WEF, she founded and led the Center for the New Economy and Society. She also headed the organization’s Global Communications Group, Global Programming Group, and engagement with academic institutions, civil society and international organizations.

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

IATA welcomes new leadership

Roberto Alvo, Chair of the IATA Board of Directors and CEO of LATAM Airlines Group, welcomed the appointment.

He said Zahidi’s extensive experience at the World Economic Forum would strengthen IATA’s role as the voice of the global airline industry.

Zahidi holds a BA in Economics from Smith College, an MPhil in International Economics from The Graduate Institute and an MPA from Harvard University.

Reacting to her appointment, Zahidi said she was honored to lead IATA at a pivotal time for global aviation.

She added that she looked forward to advancing the organization’s mission to represent, lead and serve the airline industry.