Zahidi’s appointment will take effect on November 1, 2026, according to a statement released by IATA. She will succeed current Director General Willie Walsh, whose tenure is scheduled to end on July 31, 2026.
IATA Chairman Roberto Alvo praised Walsh’s leadership, saying his tenure helped the association recover from the challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic while expanding its global representation.
Alvo said IATA was grateful for Walsh’s contribution and expressed confidence in Zahidi’s ability to lead the organisation during a period of major transformation in the aviation industry.
“Saadia’s long and outstanding experience at the World Economic Forum (WEF) will enhance and strengthen IATA as the voice of the world’s airlines. Global air transport is a trillion-dollar industry that has and continues to change the world for the better.
“Technology and geopolitics, among others, will reshape the industry in the future and Saadia brings the right skills to effectively articulate what our industry needs to continue connecting people and economies safely, efficiently and sustainably,” he said.
Alvo, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of LATAM Airlines Group, added that Zahidi’s appointment would bring a new perspective to IATA while strengthening the organisation’s support for airlines through its existing technical, financial and data-driven capabilities.
Zahidi brings more than two decades of experience from the World Economic Forum, where she served in several senior leadership roles. She was a managing director and member of the organisation’s managing board, having previously led key areas including the Global Communications Group, Global Programming Group, and WEF’s engagement with academics, civil society organisations and international institutions.
She is also the founder and current head of the WEF’s Centre for the New Economy and Society. Zahidi has played a major role in producing several influential global reports, including the Future of Jobs Report, Future of Growth Report, Global Gender Gap Report and Chief Economists Outlook.
Beyond her work at the WEF, Zahidi has contributed to international initiatives focused on economic development and inclusion. She served on the United Nations Secretary-General’s High-Level Panel on Women’s Economic Empowerment and was also a member of the European Space Agency’s High-Level Advisory Group.
Her appointment marks a significant milestone for IATA, which represents airlines worldwide and serves as a key voice on issues including aviation safety, sustainability, industry standards and global connectivity.
With the aviation sector facing rapid changes driven by technology, environmental concerns and shifting geopolitical realities, Zahidi is expected to bring her global economic expertise and policy experience to guide the association into its next phase.