International Air Transport Association Announces 82nd Annual General Meeting in Rio de Janeiro, with LATAM Airlines Group Highlighting Brazil’s Aviation Growth

Published on June 2, 2025

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has officially announced that its 82nd Annual General Meeting will take place in Rio de Janeiro, underscoring Brazil’s expanding role in global aviation. With LATAM Airlines Group serving as the event’s host, the meeting highlights both the country’s strategic importance in South America and its dynamic growth in the aviation sector, reflecting rising passenger demand and ongoing industry innovation in the region.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced that its 82nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held in June 2026 in the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This prestigious event brings together key stakeholders from the global aviation industry, including airline executives, regulators, and policymakers, to discuss critical issues shaping the future of air transport. Hosting the AGM in Rio highlights Brazil’s growing significance in international aviation and its strategic role within the South American market.

LATAM Airlines Group, one of the largest and most influential carriers in Latin America, will proudly serve as the official host for the 2026 IATA AGM. Known for its extensive network across 27 countries and 153 destinations, LATAM’s involvement underscores the airline’s commitment to fostering industry collaboration and innovation. By partnering with IATA for this event, LATAM aims to showcase Brazil’s dynamic aviation sector and its potential to support sustainable growth within the region.

The 82nd IATA AGM in Rio de Janeiro promises to be a landmark occasion for the aviation community, providing a platform to address pressing challenges such as environmental sustainability, technological advancements, and evolving passenger expectations. Attendees can expect a rich agenda featuring insightful presentations, networking opportunities, and strategic discussions aimed at driving the global airline industry forward. With LATAM Airlines Group hosting, the event will also highlight Latin America’s unique contributions to the worldwide aviation landscape.

“We are excited to accept LATAM’s offer to host IATA’s 82nd AGM in Rio de Janeiro. The last time the IATA AGM was in South America was in 1999, also in Rio. It will be a great opportunity to take stock of changes over two decades of development that have seen strengthening air connectivity successfully support major world events like the FIFA World Cup and the Olympics. By meeting in the largest aviation market in South America, the AGM will highlight the great potential for aviation to be an even more powerful strategic force driving social and economic prosperity,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General. 

“LATAM is proud to host the IATA AGM in Brazil in 2026, the main market for our airline group connecting South America to the world. In addition to facilitating a successful gathering of our industry leaders, we look forward to showcasing the contributions and enormous potential for aviation in Brazil and throughout South America. We are confident that Rio de Janeiro, one of the most spectacular cities in the world with its unparalleled hospitality and beauty, will ensure a warm welcome and a memorable experience for all attendees,” said Roberto Alvo, CEO of LATAM Airlines Group. 

LATAM Airlines Group stands as a vital connector of people and cultures, weaving together the diverse regions of South America and reaching far beyond the continent. With a comprehensive network that spans 153 destinations across 27 countries, the airline plays a crucial role in facilitating travel, commerce, and cultural exchange for millions of passengers each year. This extensive reach underscores LATAM’s commitment to bringing communities closer and supporting regional integration.

The year 2024 marked a milestone for LATAM Airlines as it transported an unprecedented 82 million passengers, setting a new record for the carrier. This achievement reflects not only the airline’s growing popularity but also its operational excellence and capacity to meet the increasing demand for air travel in South America. LATAM’s ability to attract such a vast number of travelers highlights its significance as the leading airline in the region.

Central to LATAM’s strategic vision is its focus on fleet modernization, which aims to enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency. The airline has been actively investing in newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft, signaling a forward-thinking approach to maintaining a competitive edge. This modernization effort not only improves comfort and reliability for passengers but also reduces operational costs and environmental impact.

Environmental sustainability has become a cornerstone of LATAM’s corporate responsibility agenda. The airline is advancing initiatives designed to minimize its carbon footprint, aligning with global trends toward greener aviation. From adopting sustainable aviation fuels to implementing more efficient flight operations, LATAM demonstrates its commitment to protecting the environment while continuing to expand its services.

The choice of Rio de Janeiro as the host city for the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Annual General Meeting in 2024 pays homage to Brazil’s historic contributions to aviation. This event recognizes the country’s rich heritage, rooted in the pioneering spirit of Alberto Santos-Dumont. His innovative work in powered flight during the early 20th century laid foundational principles that have propelled aviation development in Latin America and worldwide.

IATA’s 82nd Annual General Meeting will be held in Rio de Janeiro, spotlighting Brazil’s growing influence in global aviation. LATAM Airlines Group, as the host, emphasizes the country’s expanding role and the region’s rising travel demand.

Alberto Santos-Dumont’s legendary 1906 flight remains a celebrated milestone, symbolizing the dawn of modern aviation. His achievements not only inspired generations of aviators but also positioned Brazil as a key player in the history of flight. Hosting the IATA AGM in Rio highlights this legacy while providing a platform for LATAM and the broader aviation community to shape the future of air travel in a region steeped in innovation and progress.