Tharakan succeeds Hughes as next TIACA director general
The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) has appointed Mammen Tharakan as its next director general, with the aviation executive set to take over from Glyn Hughes in August 2026.
Tharakan succeeds Hughes, who has led the global air cargo association since 2021 and will retire following a transition period designed to ensure a smooth handover.
As director general, Tharakan will lead TIACA’s secretariat and work alongside the association’s board of directors to advance its vision of a safe, profitable and united air cargo industry, representing members from across the global air cargo supply chain.
Tharakan brings more than 25 years of international aviation and air cargo leadership experience, having held senior positions across airports, airlines, ground handling, ecommerce, route development, infrastructure, tourism and investment attraction.
His career includes roles with Air France-KLM, where his interest in air cargo first developed, as well as leadership positions at Edmonton International Airport and King Salman International Airport in Riyadh.
Roos Bakker, chair of TIACA, said: “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.
“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.”
Reflecting on his tenure, 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.”
Tharakan said: “It is a tremendous honour 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.”