ISLAMABAD: Lahore-born economist Saadia Zahidi has made history after being appointed as the first woman director general of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the global body representing more than 370 airlines that account for around 85% of worldwide air traffic.
Zahidi will assume the role on Nov. 1, succeeding Willie Walsh. Until then, IATA Chief Financial Officer Sandrine Le Borgne will serve as acting director general.
Currently serving as managing director and a member of the Managing Board at the World Economic Forum (WEF), Zahidi brings years of experience in global economic policy, international cooperation, and organizational leadership.
Zahidi, who is currently living in Switzerland, said in an earlier exclusive interview with Pakistan TV Digital that she visits Pakistan at least three to four times a year to see her family.
“Pakistan is still very much home as I grew up in Lahore and Islamabad and went to school mostly in these two cities.”
Tenure at WEF
During her tenure at the WEF, she founded and heads the Center for the New Economy and Society and has previously led the organization's Global Communications Group, Global Programming Group, and engagement with governments, academics, civil society, and international organizations.
Her appointment marks a significant milestone for both the aviation industry and Pakistan, making her the ninth director general in IATA’s history and the first woman to hold the position.
Welcoming the appointment, IATA Board Chair and LATAM Airlines Group CEO Roberto Alvo said Zahidi’s extensive experience at the WEF would strengthen IATA’s role as the global voice of the airline industry.
Harvard graduate
He added that she brings the skills needed to help airlines navigate an increasingly complex global environment while advancing safe, efficient, and sustainable air transport.
An economist by training, Zahidi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Smith College, a Master of Philosophy in International Economics from The Graduate Institute, and a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University.
Beyond her work at the WEF, Zahidi has served on the United Nations Secretary-General’s High-Level Panel on Women’s Economic Empowerment and the European Space Agency’s High-Level Advisory Group.
Book author
She is also the author of Fifty Million Rising, a book exploring the growing role of working women across the Muslim world.
Accepting the appointment, Zahidi said she was honored to lead IATA at a pivotal moment for global aviation.
“Aviation is critical infrastructure for economic growth, trade, tourism, jobs, investment, and opportunity,” she said, adding that she looks forward to working with airlines, governments, and industry partners to strengthen resilience, embrace innovation, and support sustainable growth.
Zahidi takes charge at a challenging time for the aviation sector, with airlines facing rising geopolitical tensions, higher fuel costs, supply chain constraints, and growing pressure to meet the industry's target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Her appointment is being seen as a landmark achievement, reflecting the increasing role of Pakistani professionals in leading influential international organizations.
