Willie Walsh: Resetting IATA’s Agenda

Willie Walsh: Resetting IATA’s Agenda

Share to Linkedin Willie Walsh retired from his post as CEO of leading European airline group IAG in September 2021 but in April this year he took on another high profile industry role as Director General of IATA. He does so at a time when the airline industry continues to reel from the effects of the Covid crisis, compounded by the wholly uncoordinated quarantine and travel restrictions imposed by global governments. There has never been a more critical time when the world's airlines need to speak with one voice and to exert a stronger influence on Governments. The magnitude of the task cannot be overstated and will take strong and determined leadership. Based on his track record and on my experience meeting and talking with him, I believe Walsh is the right man at the right time. I spoke with him in an interview for the recent Arabian Travel Market Virtual event. After a 41 year career including CEO roles at Aer Lingus, British Airways and IAG, Walsh tells me he did indeed plan to retire, taking time to sail his boat and enjoy a few pints of Guinness. That was put on hold as Covid intervened, he firstly extended