The International Air Transport Association (IATA) will hold its 82nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from June 6 to 8.
Approximately 1,500 people, including top executives from IATA member airlines, government officials, suppliers, and media representatives, will gather to discuss every aspect of the global air transport industry. LATAM Airlines Group will serve as the host airline. This is the first time in 27 years that the event is being held in South America, since it was last held in Rio de Janeiro in 1999.
On June 6, regional media briefings and press conferences will be held, and on June 7, the AGM and WATS will take place, during which the IATA Diversity & Inclusion Awards will be announced. At WATS, in addition to the “CEO Panel” discussion moderated by CNN’s Richard Quest, sessions will be held on topics such as closing the gap between the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and airline demand, securing airspace capacity, passenger rights and data regulations, and the use of AI in the aviation industry.
In Brazil, which is the largest aviation market in South America, total passenger numbers in 2025 increased by 11.5% year-on-year. Domestic passengers exceeded 100 million for the first time, and international passengers increased by 17% compared to 2024, significantly surpassing pre‑COVID levels. Including related industries, aviation generates an economic impact of about USD 46.4 billion, equivalent to 2.1% of the country’s GDP.
IATA is an industry association representing more than 370 airlines that together account for about 85% of global air passenger traffic. The 2027 AGM and WATS will be held in Xiamen, China, with Xiamen Airlines serving as the host airline.
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