LATAM Airlines will host the International Air Transport Association’s 82nd Annual General Meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 2026. IATA returns to South America after 27 years, highlighting the region’s fast aviation growth and rising global importance.

The event provides a key platform to explore how air connectivity transforms South America’s economy and society. Over two decades, air travel expanded rapidly, driven by international events and infrastructure investments. LATAM Airlines, the largest airline group in South America, connects 153 destinations in 27 countries.

Recently, LATAM Airlines set passenger records and pushed environmental sustainability. The company actively updates its fleet with fuel-efficient planes and reduces carbon emissions, matching global green aviation goals.

Rio de Janeiro’s rich aviation history deepens the significance of hosting the AGM. The city celebrates flight pioneers and invests heavily in airports and air travel innovation. The meeting spotlights challenges unique to South America, such as boosting regional connections and modernizing infrastructure.

Hundreds of global aviation leaders will attend the 2026 AGM, boosting Rio and Brazil’s hospitality and service sectors. The event promotes Brazil as a crucial player in the aviation market and supports global cooperation for future growth.

LATAM Airlines hosting this event reinforces South America’s growing aviation role and fuels momentum for sustainable, innovative air travel.

Related stories:

• Delta Airlines Just Made Brazil Easier to Reach—Daily Flights to Rio Start Now
• American Airlines Launches New Dallas to Rio Flights
• Southwest Airlines Joins IATA to Strengthen Global Presence
• IATA Demands Full Investigation Into Azerbaijan Airlines Tragedy
• Global Aviation Lands in New Delhi: IATA Returns to India After 42 Years