Saadia Zahidi has made history as the first woman set to lead the International Air Transport Association (IATA) as Director General. She takes over from Willie Walsh on November 1, 2026,after his term ends July 31, 2026.
With over 20 years at the World Economic Forum (WEF), Zahidi's resume is packed. She was Managing Director, on the Managing Board,and founded the WEF's Centre for New Economy and Society. Her work put her at heart of global economic policy-making and discourse.
IATA's Board,overseeing the airline industry worldwide,trusts Zahidi to steer through rapid changes in tech and geopolitics. Roberto Alvo, IATA Board Chair and CEO of LATAM Airlines Group,praised her experience. He also credited Walsh with strengthening IATA post-pandemic.
Zahidi called her new role an honor, especially now, as aviation is crucial infrastructure for growth,trade,and jobs . She aims to foster ties among airlines,governments,and partners, all while pushing for innovation and sustainable growth.
At WEF, Zahidi co-authored key reports like the Future of Jobs Report and the Global Gender Gap Report. She also contributed to the UN and European Space Agency and wrote Fifty Million Rising,about women in the Muslim workforce.
Her academic chops? A BA in Economics from Smith College, an MPhil in International Economics from the Graduate Institute, and MPA from Harvard. She's Swiss and Pakistani, offering global view.
This leadership change at IATA comes as aviation faces a tricky period, with geopolitical shifts and tech advances reshaping landscape. Zahidi's role will be crucial in tackling these head-on, given aviation's massive role in global connectivity.
Meanwhile,Walsh will pivot to InterGlobe Aviation Limited, India's largest airline parent,as CEO before August 3, 2026. Pieter Elbers exits immediately, with Rahul Bhatia stepping in as interim CEO.
Zahidi's leadership is expected to unify and advocate for aviation in an interconnected world .
