82nd IATA General Meeting opens in Rio de Janeiro

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Leaders of major airlines, government representatives and industry experts have gathered in Rio de Janeiro for the 82nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the World Air Transport Summit (WATS), taking place from 6 to 8 June.

The event is being held in South America for the first time in 27 years, with LATAM Airlines Group serving as the host. According to IATA, around 1,500 representatives from the aviation industry, government institutions and media are participating in the forum.

IATA Director General Willie Walsh said that over recent decades countries in the region have significantly strengthened aviation infrastructure, creating conditions for expanded air connectivity and substantial economic benefits.

He noted that Brazil’s aviation sector already accounts for 2.1% of the country’s gross domestic product, while strong tourism potential, opportunities for sustainable aviation fuel production and rising exports provide additional drivers for sector growth.

According to IATA data, Brazil’s aviation sector supports nearly 247,000 jobs and generates US$10.3 billion in value added. Including related industries, tourism activity and consumer spending, aviation supports around 1.9 million jobs and contributes US$46.4 billion to the economy, equivalent to 2.1% of GDP.

Air travel demand in South America’s largest economy continues to grow. In 2025, passenger traffic increased by 11.5% compared to the previous year. Domestic traffic exceeded 100 million passengers for the first time, while international traffic rose by 17% and significantly surpassed pre-pandemic levels.

LATAM Airlines Group CEO Roberto Alvo said hosting the forum in Brazil would showcase the country’s aviation market potential and support further development of the sector as a key driver of regional economic growth.

Following the plenary sessions, work will continue under the World Air Transport Summit. Participants will discuss aviation development in Brazil, expansion of sustainable aviation fuel production, airspace capacity amid rising geopolitical tensions, growth of air cargo, regulatory issues, and the application of artificial intelligence technologies.

The forum will also host the IATA Diversity & Inclusion Awards, which recognise organisations and professionals promoting gender equality in the global aviation industry.