The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has elected EVA Air President Clay Sun to its Board of Directors, making him the first Taiwanese representative to serve on the organization’s highest governing body. This also marks the first participation by a Taiwan-based airline in the board. The announcement was made at the 82nd IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on June 22, 2026.
Significance of the Appointment
Sun’s election to the IATA Board of Directors is a historic milestone for Taiwan’s civil aviation industry. The board is IATA’s highest decision-making body, responsible for strategic leadership, governance, and major policy decisions. Its work is supported by four committees: the Governance & Performance Committee, the Industry Strategy & Policy Committee, the Finance, Risk & Audit Committee, and the Membership Committee.
“It is a great honor to represent EVA Air as the first member from Taiwan to join the IATA Board of Directors,” said EVA Air President Clay Sun. “This milestone not only marks EVA Air’s entry into the core of international aviation organizations but also represents a significant milestone for Taiwan’s civil aviation industry. EVA Air looks forward to working with global partners to contribute to the sustainable development of the aviation sector.”
IATA’s Role and Global Reach
Founded in 1945, IATA is a non-governmental international organization representing more than 360 airlines worldwide, which account for over 80 percent of global air traffic. Headquartered in Montreal with executive offices in Geneva, the association plays a central role in connecting global air transport networks, advancing industry standards, and promoting safe and reliable air services.
IATA manages systems such as the Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP) and New Distribution Capability (NDC), which help airlines streamline complex international operations, simplify administrative processes, and enhance connectivity with the global marketplace. It also oversees global airline and airport coding systems that identify carriers, airports, and intermodal locations worldwide, supporting standardized operations across the industry.
Recognition of EVA Air’s Contributions
IATA Director General Willie Walsh welcomed Sun’s appointment, stating: “We are delighted to welcome Clay Sun as a member of IATA’s Board of Directors. We look forward to tapping into his vast experience in both the passenger and cargo side of the business to help shape IATA’s strategic direction and priorities for the airline industry, and in overseeing the work of IATA.”
President Clay Sun’s election reflects global recognition of EVA Air’s contributions to international aviation and reinforces the airline’s growing leadership role within the global aviation community.
