Luis Gallego Named IATA Chair as LATAM Airlines Group to Host AGM in Rio 2026, ET TravelWorld

Following a landmark gathering in New Delhi for its 81st Annual General Meeting (AGM), the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has confirmed a dual leadership and geographical shift: Luis Gallego, CEO of International Airlines Group (IAG), has been named Chair of the IATA Board, while LATAM Airlines Group will host the 82nd AGM in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in June 2026.

The baton was passed to Gallego at the conclusion of the AGM in New Delhi on 2 June 2025. Gallego, who becomes the 83rd Chair of the IATA Board, brings nearly three decades of experience across Europe’s aviation sector. His leadership tenure at Iberia, Iberia Express, Vueling, and Clickair helped steer these carriers toward greater efficiency and service excellence. Gallego’s current position at the helm of IAG since 2020 has positioned him at the forefront of European aviation strategy.

“I am honoured to be taking up the position of Chair of the IATA Board,” said Gallego. “Our industry faces complex challenges—from environmental sustainability to global infrastructure—but it also has extraordinary potential driven by its people. I look forward to steering IATA’s efforts in creating a strong, innovative and resilient global airline industry.”

IATA Director General Willie Walsh welcomed Gallego’s appointment, stating, “Luis has a long and deep involvement with the complex issues which are top priorities for our Association—facilitating net zero carbon emissions by 2050, achieving a smart approach to regulation and ensuring the right capacity and cost structure.”

Looking ahead, LATAM Airlines Group will host the next AGM in Rio, marking the association’s return to South America for the first time since 1999. “We are excited to accept LATAM’s offer to host IATA’s 82nd AGM,” Walsh added. “Meeting in the largest aviation market in South America highlights the region’s rising strategic role in global connectivity.”

For LATAM, the event presents an opportunity to showcase both the growth of its own operations and the evolving aviation landscape in Brazil. “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,” said Roberto Alvo, CEO of LATAM Airlines Group. “Rio de Janeiro, one of the most spectacular cities globally, will ensure a memorable experience for attendees.”

With a network spanning 153 destinations in 27 countries and a record 82 million passengers transported in 2024, LATAM has also made significant strides in sustainability and fleet modernisation. The airline’s legacy is rooted in a continent whose aviation history traces back to pioneers like Alberto Santos-Dumont. Brazil has previously hosted IATA AGMs in 1947 and 1999, both of which highlighted the country’s centrality in Latin American aviation.

With Gallego taking on IATA’s top board role and LATAM preparing to welcome aviation leaders to Rio, the next chapter for the airline industry promises a sharper focus on sustainability, regional inclusion, and collaborative leadership.