The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) has announce the appointment of Mammen Tharakan as its next director general, succeeding Glyn Hughes, who has successfully led the Association since 2021.

Tharakan will officially assume the role in August 2026.

Hughes announced he will step down from his role in March.

Following a rigorous selection process led by the TIACA Executive Committee and Board of Directors, with leaders considered from across the global air cargo community, Tharakan was unanimously selected to lead the association into its next phase of growth, innovation, and global engagement.

TIACA said Tharakan is a highly respected aviation and air cargo executive with more than 25 years of international leadership experience across multiple countries, he brings a unique combination of strategic vision, commercial expertise, and operational excellence.

His career spans the breadth of the aviation ecosystem; airports, airlines, ground handling, ecommerce, route development, infrastructure, tourism, investment attraction; giving him a distinct perspective on the forces shaping air cargo.

He previously worked at Air France-KLM, at Edmonton International Airport and King Salman International Airport in Riyadh.

As Director General, Tharakan will lead the association's secretariat and work closely with the TIACA Board of Directors to advance its vision of a safe, profitable, and united air cargo industry, representing members across every sector of the global air cargo supply chain.

"After an extensive global search, the Board is delighted to welcome Mammen as TIACA's next Director General. His exceptional leadership experience, deep understanding of the global air cargo ecosystem, and proven ability to build meaningful partnerships make him the ideal person to lead TIACA into its next chapter," said Roos Bakker, chair of TIACA.

"Our industry continues to evolve at pace, creating both exciting opportunities and complex challenges. 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."

Glyn Hughes, TIACA Director General, added: "Serving as TIACA's Director General over the past five years has been one of the greatest privileges of my career. Together with our Board, members, partners, and the Secretariat team, we have strengthened TIACA's position as the global voice of air cargo, expanded our programs, grown our events, and reinforced our relevance across every sector of the industry."

"I am delighted to hand over the leadership of the Association to Mammen. His experience, energy, and passion for aviation make him exceptionally well suited to build on the strong foundation that has been created. I look forward to watching TIACA continue to thrive under his leadership," he added.

Tharakan also welcomed his new role. "It is a tremendous honor to be entrusted with leading TIACA at such an important time for our 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. TIACA plays a unique role in bringing together every sector of that ecosystem and championing its people."

"I step into this role with great respect for what Glyn, the team, and the Board have achieved. The path forward is clear — grow our membership, deepen the value we deliver, and strengthen our visibility globally," Thakaran added.

"I am excited to work alongside our Board, our members, our industry partners, and the dedicated Secretariat team to foster even greater collaboration across the air cargo value chain. Together, we have a remarkable opportunity to shape the future of our industry. Above all, this industry is powered by passionate people - I am eager to get to work, meet our members, and build together."

The appointment marks the beginning of a carefully planned leadership transition, with Hughes working closely alongside Tharakan to ensure a seamless handover of responsibilities before assuming his planned retirement.

Under Hughes' leadership, TIACA strengthened its position as the leading global association representing every sector of the air cargo industry.

During his tenure, the Association expanded its global membership, launched new sustainability initiatives and industry research, enhanced member engagement, and elevated flagship events including the Executive Summit and Air Cargo Forum while strengthening TIACA's financial position and international influence.