EVA Air President Clay Sun has been elected to the International Air Transport Association board, becoming the first Taiwanese representative to serve on the body’s highest governing body.

The move also marks the first time a Taiwan-based airline has joined the IATA Board of Directors, according to the association. The announcement was made at the 82nd IATA Annual General Meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

IATA said the election gives EVA Air a direct voice in discussions that shape the global airline industry, including safety, sustainability, operations and passenger experience. The appointment is likely to draw attention in Taiwan, where the airline is one of the best-known international carriers and a major player in long-haul travel links across Asia, North America and Europe.

The board is IATA’s highest governing body and plays a central role in setting the association’s policy direction. Its members are drawn from airlines around the world and help guide decisions on issues that affect route networks, costs and industry standards.

Clay Sun’s election comes at a time when aviation groups continue to focus on recovery, capacity growth and regulatory pressure across the sector. For Taiwan, the appointment gives its aviation industry a stronger presence in a forum that influences global air travel policy.

IATA did not provide further details on Sun’s term or the voting process in the announcement. The election nonetheless marks a milestone for EVA Air and for Taiwan’s place in international airline governance.