TIACA names Mammen Tharakan next director general

The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) has appointed aviation executive Mammen Tharakan as its next director general, succeeding Glyn Hughes in August.

The appointment follows what TIACA described as a global search led by its executive committee and board, with candidates considered from across the air cargo sector. Mr Tharakan was unanimously selected to lead the association through its next phase of growth.

Mr Tharakan brings more than 25 years’ experience across the aviation industry, having held senior roles spanning airlines, airports, ground handling, ecommerce, tourism, infrastructure and route development. His career includes positions at Air France-KLM, Edmonton International and, most recently, King Salman International Airport in Riyadh.

TIACA chair Roos Bakker said Mr Tharakan’s broad industry experience and collaborative leadership made him well suited to guide the association.

“Our industry continues to evolve at pace, creating both exciting opportunities and complex challenges,” she said. “Mammen brings the strategic vision, commercial acumen and collaborative leadership that will ensure TIACA continues to grow its influence, deliver value for our members and unite the global air cargo community.”

Mr Hughes, who has led TIACA since 2021, said it had been “one of the greatest privileges” of his career to serve as director general.

“We have strengthened TIACA’s position as the global voice of air cargo,” he said, adding that he was confident Mr Tharakan would build on those achievements.

Mr Tharakan said he was honoured to take on the role at a pivotal time for the industry.

“Air cargo is critical to global trade and economic development, but its greatest impact is human. It improves lives and livelihoods around the world every day,” he said.

He added that his priorities would include expanding TIACA’s membership, increasing the value delivered to members and strengthening the association’s global profile.

The appointment marks the start of a planned transition, with Mr Hughes working alongside Mr Tharakan ahead of his retirement.

During Mr Hughes’ five-year tenure, TIACA expanded its global membership, launched sustainability initiatives and industry research, strengthened member engagement and grew flagship events including the Executive Summit and Air Cargo Forum, while improving the association’s financial position and international influence.