Archive · 24 Jul 2026
Saadia Zahidi to lead IATA as first woman DG
Saadia Zahidi is going to be the new leader of IATA, the group that represents airlines around the world.
She will start her job in 2026 and will be the first woman to lead this organization.
She is currently working at the World Economic Forum.
The current leader, Willie Walsh, will finish his job in mid-2026, and someone else will temporarily lead until Zahidi starts.
Zahidi says she is excited to lead IATA during an important time for the aviation industry.
She wants to work with airlines, governments, and partners to make the industry stronger and more sustainable.
Saadia Zahidi appointed as IATA's next Director General, effective November 1, 2026.
She will be the first woman to lead the global airline industry body.
Zahidi joins IATA from the World Economic Forum, where she serves as Managing Director.
Current Director General Willie Walsh will conclude his tenure on July 31, 2026.
Sandrine Le Borgne will serve as Interim Director General until Zahidi's appointment.
- Who
- Saadia Zahidi
- What
- Appointment as IATA's next Director General
- When
- Effective November 1, 2026
- Where
- Global
- Why
- To lead the global airline industry body and advocate for the industry's priorities
Supporters of Zahidi's appointment
Critics of Zahidi's appointment
Experience and qualifications
Supporters of Zahidi's appointment
Supporters highlight Zahidi's extensive experience at the World Economic Forum and her skills in advocacy and building technical, financial, and data capabilities.
Critics of Zahidi's appointment
Critics may question whether her experience at the WEF is directly applicable to the aviation industry and whether she has the necessary background in airline operations.
Gender representation
Supporters of Zahidi's appointment
Supporters view her appointment as a positive step towards gender diversity in leadership roles within the aviation industry.
Critics of Zahidi's appointment
Critics might argue that the appointment is more about symbolism than substance, and that qualifications should be the primary consideration.
- Appointment Date
- November 1, 2026
- Current Role
- Managing Director, World Economic Forum
- Previous Director General
- Willie Walsh
- Interim Director General
- Sandrine Le Borgne
- IATA's Role
- Voice of the world's airlines, standards, essential services, and advocacy
- IATA Membership
- About 350 airlines accounting for more than 80% of global air traffic
