World Economic Forum

Lahore-Born Saadia Zahidi Makes History with Top IATA Appointment The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Pakistan-origin Saadia Zahidi as its next Director General, making history as the first woman to lead the global airline industry body. Lahore-born Zahidi will assume office on November 1, 2026, succeeding Willie Walsh, who steps down on July 31, 2026. Until her arrival, Sandrine Le Borgne, IATA’s Chief Financial Officer, will serve as Acting Director General. Her appointment marks a significant milestone for the Geneva-based organization, which represents airlines worldwide and has traditionally been led by former airline executives. First Woman to Lead IATA Saadia Zahidi becomes the ninth Director General in IATA’s history and the first female leader of the organization since its establishment. Currently serving as the Managing Director at the World Economic Forum (WEF), Zahidi brings decades of experience in global economic policy, workforce development, and international cooperation. She is also the author of Fifty Million Rising, a book that explores the growing participation of women in the workforce across the Muslim world. Strong Academic and Global Leadership Background Zahidi has an impressive academic background, holding: Her experience at the World Economic Forum has positioned her as one of the leading voices on global economic development, competitiveness, and future workforce trends. IATA Welcomes a New Perspective Announcing the appointment, IATA’s Board expressed confidence that Zahidi’s international experience would strengthen the organization’s role as the voice of the global airline industry. The association said her leadership would help effectively represent the aviation sector’s priorities while supporting safe, efficient, and sustainable global air transport. Unlike many of her predecessors, Zahidi comes from a policy and economic background rather than airline management, a shift that many industry observers believe could bring fresh ideas to the sector. Zahidi Outlines Vision for the Aviation Industry Responding to her appointment, Zahidi said she looks forward to working closely with member airlines, governments, regulators, and industry partners. She emphasized the importance of building on IATA’s strong foundation while embracing innovation, improving industry resilience, and accelerating sustainable growth. Her leadership begins at a time when the aviation industry continues to navigate rising operating costs, geopolitical uncertainty, supply chain disruptions, and the long-term transition toward lower-carbon aviation. Industry Faces Major Challenges Zahidi takes over as airlines worldwide face mounting challenges, including: Rising Fuel Costs Global oil prices have climbed above $100 per barrel amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, increasing operating expenses for airlines. Sustainability Goals The aviation industry remains committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, although progress is being constrained by limited availability of fuel-efficient aircraft and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Supply Chain Constraints Aircraft delivery delays and manufacturing bottlenecks continue to affect airline expansion plans across many regions. Zahidi has previously highlighted concerns that environmental priorities risk being overshadowed by immediate geopolitical and trade-related challenges, making sustainability a key area of focus during her tenure. A Landmark Appointment for Global Aviation Saadia Zahidi’s appointment represents a historic moment not only for IATA but also for Pakistan, as a Lahore-born global executive takes charge of one of the world’s most influential aviation organizations. Her leadership is expected to bring a broader economic and policy perspective to the aviation sector while guiding airlines through a period of rapid technological change, sustainability commitments, and evolving global travel demand.