Imagine a gathering where the world’s foremost aviation leaders convene to shape the future of air travel. In 2026, this vision will become reality as Rio de Janeiro hosts the 82nd International Air Transport Association (IATA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit. The event, scheduled for June 2026, will be hosted by LATAM Airlines Group, Latin America’s largest airline conglomerate.
The IATA AGM stands as one of the aviation industry’s most significant annual events, serving both as the association’s supreme governing body and a pivotal platform for global aviation stakeholders. Approximately 1,500 delegates—including representatives from IATA member airlines, industry partners, international and regional associations, major aircraft manufacturers, and suppliers—will join media professionals to address critical industry challenges and opportunities.
Governance and Collaboration at the Core
At its heart, the AGM fulfills essential governance functions. As IATA’s highest decision-making authority, the assembly reviews and approves the association’s policies and strategic direction, profoundly influencing global aviation’s trajectory. Delegates will engage in substantive discussions across multiple working sessions to advance the industry’s sustainable development.
Beyond governance, the event facilitates unparalleled networking opportunities. Participants will exchange insights with global peers through structured sessions and curated social events designed to foster professional connections and collaborative solutions.
Key Agenda Items for 2026
The Rio de Janeiro summit is expected to prioritize five critical industry themes:
- Sustainability: Discussions will focus on decarbonization strategies, including sustainable aviation fuel adoption, operational efficiency improvements, and emissions reduction technologies.
- Technological Innovation: Sessions will examine transformative applications of AI, blockchain, and big data in operational optimization, passenger experience enhancement, and safety systems.
- Passenger Experience: Experts will explore next-generation service models leveraging digitalization, personalization, and cabin design innovations.
- Safety Advancement: The industry’s paramount priority will be addressed through risk management frameworks, safety culture development, and emerging threat mitigation.
- Global Cooperation: Panels will strategize enhanced collaboration among airlines, airports, air navigation service providers, and regulatory bodies to address systemic challenges.
Host Capabilities and Industry Significance
LATAM Airlines Group brings extensive operational expertise as host, ensuring world-class event execution. The gathering serves not merely as an industry conference but as an economic bellwether, offering critical insights into aviation’s evolving landscape and its broader macroeconomic implications.
The 2026 AGM represents a milestone opportunity for stakeholders to collectively shape aviation’s next chapter, with outcomes likely to resonate across global transportation networks for years to come.