Badr Mohamed al-Meer, the Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Airways Group, has been elected to the Board of Governors of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). IATA, representing approximately 320 airlines worldwide, serves as the trade association for the global airline industry, advocating for the interests of airlines and promoting safe, secure, and sustainable air transport.
In a statement, Qatar Airways highlighted that al-Meer’s election to the IATA Board of Governors positions him to contribute to shaping the future growth of air travel safety and sustainability. His appointment also extends to the Executive Committee of the Arab Air Carriers’ Organisation (AACO), a regional association representing 34 Arab airlines. AACO focuses on fostering cooperation among its members in areas such as aero-political affairs, environmental sustainability, and training.
Al-Meer, who assumed the role of Qatar Airways CEO last month, brings over a decade of experience as the Chief Operating Officer of Hamad International Airport (HIA). Under his leadership, HIA achieved significant milestones, including the completion of the challenging expansion project known as ‘The Orchard.’ This expansion project, featuring a tropical garden at the center of the terminal, contributed to redefining the airport experience and was completed ahead of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
From 2018 to 2020, al-Meer served as a Board Director of the Airports Council International in the Asia/Pacific Region, contributing his expertise to future airport development and sustainability initiatives. His leadership played a pivotal role in HIA receiving prestigious industry accolades, including Skytrax’s ‘Best Airport in the World’ in 2021 and 2022.
Al-Meer’s career has been marked by key roles in some of Qatar’s most iconic developments. As the COO of HIA since 2014, he led critical divisions such as MATAR, Qatar Duty-Free, Qatar Aviation Services, Qatar Aviation Catering Company, Qatar Distribution Centre, Dhiafatina, and real estate.
His election to the IATA Board of Governors is seen as a testament to his experience and leadership in the aviation sector, further solidifying Qatar Airways’ commitment to global industry advocacy and collaboration.
