The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) has appointed Mammen Tharakan as its next director general to lead on growth, innovation, and global engagement.
Tharakan will officially assume the role in August, succeeding Glyn Hughes, who has been in the role since 2021 and whose resignation was announced in March.
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.
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.
Tharakan’s career spans the breadth of the aviation ecosystem; airports, airlines, ground handling, e-commerce, route development, infrastructure, tourism, investment attraction.
His interest in air cargo was sparked during his early career with Air France-KLM, and has carried through other senior leadership roles, including at Edmonton International Airport and King Salman International Airport in Riyadh.
“After an extensive global search, the Board is delighted to welcome Mammen as TIACA’s next Director General,” stated Roos Bakker, TIACA chair.
“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.
“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.”
Tharakan added: “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.
“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.”
During Hughes’ 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, alongside strengthening TIACA’s financial position and international influence.
Hughes said: “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.”
