By Mohamed Attia
EgyptAir has regained its seat on the Board of Governors of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) after a six-year absence, marking a significant international achievement for Egypt’s civil aviation sector.
The milestone was secured during elections held on the sidelines of IATA’s 82nd Annual General Meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from 6 to 8 June 2026.
Captain Ahmed Adel, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of EgyptAir Holding Company, was elected to the IATA Board of Governors as a representative of the Middle East and North Africa region. The appointment underscores EgyptAir’s strong standing within the global aviation community and restores the national carrier’s voice to one of the industry’s most influential decision-making bodies.
The achievement reflects the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Egypt’s presence within specialised international organisations and enhance the country’s role in shaping the future of regional and global air transport.
Commenting on the development, Captain Ahmed Adel expressed pride in EgyptAir’s return to the IATA Board of Governors, describing the election as a testament to the confidence of IATA member airlines in the expertise and professionalism of Egyptian aviation personnel.
He said the appointment serves as international recognition of the national carrier’s contributions to the aviation industry and highlights EgyptAir’s ability to play an active role in shaping the future of global air transport.
Adel added that regaining the seat would help strengthen co-operation with fellow member airlines and support initiatives aimed at advancing the industry, addressing emerging global challenges, and promoting the interests of the civil aviation sector.
IATA is the world’s leading trade association for airlines, representing more than 370 carriers that account for the vast majority of global air traffic. Its Board of Governors is responsible for setting the organisation’s strategic direction and overseeing key industry priorities, including sustainability, digital transformation, safety enhancement, and operational efficiency.
