The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Lahore-born Saadia Zahidi as its new director general, marking a historic milestone as she becomes the first woman to hold this position.Zahidi, currently managing director at the World Economic Forum (WEF), will take over from Willie Walsh on November 1, 2026.

Her appointment comes at a critical time for the aviation industry, which faces challenges such as rising oil prices, geopolitical tensions, and the need to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

Zahidi's background includes authoring 'Fifty Million Rising,' a book on working women in the Muslim world, and holding advanced degrees in economics and public policy.

The press release highlighted her expertise in articulating the industry's needs and strengthening IATA's role as the voice of global airlines.

However, her outsider status to the aviation sector may pose challenges as she navigates discussions on reducing flight pollution and addressing industry-wide issues like the shortage of green jet fuel.The appointment underscores a shift in leadership dynamics within IATA, which has traditionally been led by former airline executives.