A Pakistan-born economist who spent two decades reshaping global economic policy at the World Economic Forum is set to become the first woman to lead the International Air Transport Association. Saadia Zahidi will take the helm of the airline industry's most influential trade group, marking a historic shift for an organization that has never had a female director general in its 80-year history. Main Developments Zahidi's appointment to lead IATA was confirmed in late July 2026. The global trade association represents more than 300 member airlines and sets commercial and safety standards that govern air travel worldwide. Her educational credentials include a BA in Economics from Smith College, an MPhil in International Economics from The Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, and a Masters of Public Administration from Harvard Kennedy School. She holds dual Pakistani and Swiss nationalities and speaks English, French, Portuguese, and Urdu. Read also: Why Pakistan's Inflation Dip Masks Persistent Price Pressures Background Zahidi spent more than 20 years at the World Economic Forum, rising to Managing Director and Board Member. There she founded the Centre for the New Economy and Society, which produces influential reports including the Future of Jobs Reports, Future of Growth Reports, Global Gender Gap Reports, and Chief Economist Outlooks. Her influence extends beyond economics. She has served on the European Space Agency's High-Level Advisory Group, the UN Secretary General's panel for Women's Economic Empowerment, and the Global Leadership Council of Generation Unlimited. In 2018, she published 'Fifty Million Rising: The New Generation of Working Women Transforming the Muslim World,' a book documenting the rise of working women across Muslim-majority nations. Why It Matters IATA sets the technical and regulatory framework for global aviation, an industry that carries billions of passengers annually. Zahidi's background in economic policy and gender equity suggests she may push for broader labor and sustainability standards within the airline sector. Her appointment also signals a growing recognition of leadership talent from the Global South. As a Pakistani-born executive with Swiss nationality, she brings a perspective that could reshape how IATA engages with emerging aviation markets. What's Next Zahidi will assume the Director General role at IATA's headquarters in Montreal. The exact start date and transition timeline have not been publicly detailed. Industry observers will watch for her early priorities, particularly regarding climate commitments and post-pandemic recovery strategies for member airlines.