The case
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Swiss-Pakistani executive Saadia Zahidi as its next Director General, making her the first woman to lead the global airline body. She will take over in November 2026 from Willie Walsh, former CEO of Aer Lingus and British Airways.
Source: CH-Medien & IATA
The commentary
Zahidi, a World Economic Forum executive, has previously worked for the United Nations and the European Space Agency. IATA represents more than 330 airlines worldwide.
Zahidi underscores aviation’s vital contribution to economic growth, international connectivity, tourism, job creation and investment. Amid a rapidly changing global landscape, IATA serves as a key partner for the industry, delivering trusted standards, essential services as well as effective representation of its interests.









