What Happened
Saadia Zahid To Lead Global Airline Association Amid Industry Change
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Saadia Zahid as its first female director general, effective November 1, 2026. Zahid, currently managing director at the World Economic Forum, will succeed Willie Walsh, who is leaving to join IndiGo. IATA’s board of directors selected Zahid for her outstanding experience, which is expected to enhance the association’s position as the voice of the world’s airlines. According to IATA, Zahid’s appointment comes at a moment of significant change in the international environment, with technology and geopolitics set to reshape the industry. This development was first reported by AeroTime.