IFALPA welcomes Céline Canu as new Managing Director

Céline Canu begins her tenure as Managing Director of the International Federation of Air Line Pilots' Associations (IFALPA), in January 2024.

The Executive Board of the International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations (IFALPA) is pleased to announce that Céline Canu has accepted the role of Managing Director. Beginning in January 2024, Céline will lead the activities of the Secretariat Staff from IFALPA’s Headquarters in Montreal, Canada.

IFALPA President, Cpt Amornvaj “Ben” Mansumitchai expressed his support: “I am delighted to welcome Céline Canu as the Managing Director of IFALPA. Having known her for many years, I am certain that her experience within the global aviation community, together with her vision and exceptional people skills, will play a pivotal role in working collaboratively with both the executive board and staff to achieve the Federation’s goals. She is the right person to help bring IFALPA to the next level.”

Canu is an accomplished professional with decades of experience in managing teams, developing air transport policy, and negotiating with governments and international organizations. Serving over the past year as an IFALPA Technical Officer, she brings strategic insight into international air transport regulations and operational procedures, particularly focusing on safety, air traffic services, and environmental concerns. Her role has been distinguished with active participation in ICAO consultations and supporting IFALPA Member Associations.

An air transport policy expert, Canu has held several leadership roles in the international aviation community, including serving as Global Head of Passenger Process at the International Air Transport Association (IATA). She also worked in policy development for IFALPA Member, the European Cockpit Association in Brussels, where she developed the organization's strategy and expertise in the area of air services agreement negotiations, industrial affairs, air transport regulation, and aviation safety and security. Céline holds a master’s degree in Energy Economics from the French École Nationale Supérieure du Pétrole et des Moteurs – IFP School in Paris.

“I am thrilled to step into the role of Managing Director at IFALPA, an organization close to my heart. It's a privilege to join this team of talented professionals, and this opportunity fills me with a profound sense of honor and excitement. My commitment is to foster a culture where collaboration, innovation, and integrity are not just values, but the very foundation of our daily endeavors. I strongly believe in the power of partnerships, and I am looking forward to collaborating with IFALPA Member Associations, aviation stakeholders, and policymakers to advance the federation's mission as the Global Voice of Pilots.”

IFALPA is the global voice of pilots. An international not-for-profit organization, IFALPA represents over 110,000 pilots in more than 70 countries. The mission of the Federation is to promote the highest level of aviation safety worldwide and to be the global advocate of the piloting profession, providing representation, services, and support to both our members and the aviation industry.