Saadia Zahidi will become the first female Director General of IATA.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Saadia Zahidi as its next Director General, effective November 1, 2026, making her both the ninth Director General and the first woman to hold the position. Zahidi previously served as Managing Director at the World Economic Forum, where she led various initiatives over two decades. IATA's current Director General, Willie Walsh, will conclude his tenure on July 31, 2026, with Sandrine Le Borgne stepping in as interim Director General. Zahidi aims to focus on collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth for the aviation industry amidst a changing geopolitical landscape.