Pakistan, July 25 -- Pakistan-born executive Saadia Zahidi has been appointed as the next Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), becoming the first woman to lead the global airline industry body when she assumes office on November 1, 2026.

Zahidi will be IATA's ninth Director General and will join the aviation organisation from the World Economic Forum (WEF), where she is a Managing Director and Member of the Managing Board.

"The board is very pleased to appoint Saadia Zahidi as Director General of IATA," said Roberto Alvo, Chair of the IATA Board of Directors and CEO of LATAM Airlines Group, in a press statement.

"Saadia's long and outstanding experience at the World Economic Forum will enhance and str...