Swiss Pakistani executive Saadia Zahidi has become the first woman appointed to lead the International Air Transport Association (IATA). She will assume office on November 1 as the organisation’s ninth director-general. IATA represents more than 370 airlines that account for about 85% of global air traffic. Her appointment marks a historic milestone for the aviation industry and global leadership.

Before joining IATA, Saadia Zahidi served as a managing director and member of the Managing Board at the World Economic Forum. She currently leads the Centre for the New Economy and Society. Earlier, she also headed the forum’s Global Communications Group, Global Programming Group, and partnerships with academic institutions, civil society, and international organisations.

IATA Board Chair Roberto Alvo welcomed the appointment and praised Zahidi’s international leadership experience. He said her expertise would strengthen IATA’s role as the global voice of the airline industry. He also expressed confidence that she would help advance safer, more secure, and more sustainable air travel.

Zahidi holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Smith College, an MPhil in International Economics from The Graduate Institute, and a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University. She has also served on the United Nations Secretary-General’s panel for Women’s Economic Empowerment and the European Space Agency’s High-Level Advisory Group.

Reacting to her appointment, Saadia Zahidi said she was honoured to lead IATA during an important period for global aviation. She pledged to support airlines worldwide and strengthen the industry’s long-term growth, resilience, and sustainability.