Roberto Alvo Begins One-Year Term as IATA Board Chair

Alvo assumed the role following the conclusion of the 82nd IATA Annual General Meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where airline executives from around the world gathered to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of aviation.

The global aviation industry has a new leader at the helm of one of its most influential organizations, with LATAM Airlines Group CEO Roberto Alvo officially taking over as Chair of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Board of Directors. Alvo assumed the role following the conclusion of the 82nd IATA Annual General Meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where airline executives from around the world gathered to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of aviation.

His appointment marks another significant milestone in a career that spans more than two decades in the airline sector. As the 84th Chair of the IATA Board of Directors, Alvo succeeds International Airlines Group CEO Luis Gallego, who completed his term after helping guide the organization through a period of governance reforms and industry recovery efforts. The new chair takes office at a time when airlines are navigating rising operational costs, geopolitical uncertainty, sustainability demands and growing passenger expectations, all while continuing to support global economic activity through air connectivity.

Alvo said aviation plays an increasingly important role in connecting people, facilitating trade and supporting development across communities worldwide. He emphasized the need for collaboration among airlines, governments and industry stakeholders as the sector works to strengthen safety standards, improve operational efficiency and advance environmental goals.

From LATAM Executive to Global Aviation Leader

Alvo's journey in aviation began long before becoming one of the industry's most recognized executives.

He joined LAN Airlines, now known as LATAM Airlines Group, in 2001 and spent nearly two decades working across several key business areas, including finance, commercial operations and corporate strategy. Those experiences provided him with a broad understanding of airline management and prepared him for the leadership challenges that would follow.

In 2020, he was appointed Chief Executive Officer of LATAM Airlines Group during one of the most difficult periods in aviation history. The COVID-19 pandemic had brought global travel to a standstill, forcing airlines across the world to confront unprecedented financial and operational challenges.

Shortly after taking charge, Alvo led LATAM through its Chapter 11 restructuring process while managing the severe disruptions caused by the pandemic. The restructuring became one of the most closely watched airline recovery efforts globally, helping the company stabilize its finances and emerge from the crisis in 2022.

Under his leadership, LATAM strengthened its position as the largest airline group in Latin America. The company expanded its network, improved operational performance and continued investing in sustainability initiatives while rebuilding demand across international and domestic markets.

Today, LATAM connects passengers to more than 161 destinations across 27 countries, serving as a major gateway between South America and the rest of the world.

Industry Faces Complex Challenges and New Opportunities

Airlines are working to balance profitability with environmental commitments, modernize operations through new technologies and address ongoing supply chain constraints that continue to affect aircraft deliveries and maintenance schedules. Industry leaders are also focused on improving efficiency while ensuring that air travel remains accessible and reliable for passengers and businesses that depend on global connectivity.

IATA Director General Willie Walsh praised Alvo's leadership record, noting his experience steering LATAM through extraordinary challenges and transforming the airline group into one of the strongest performers in the region. Walsh also acknowledged the contribution of outgoing Chair Luis Gallego, whose leadership helped guide IATA through important governance reforms and other strategic initiatives.