The International Air Transport Association has appointed Roberto Alvo, chief executive of LATAM Airlines Group, as chair of its Board of Directors for a one-year term.
Alvo took up the role at the conclusion of the 82nd IATA Annual General Meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on 8 June 2026. He is the 84th chair of the board and has served on it since 2020.
He succeeds Luis Gallego, chief executive of International Airlines Group, who continues to serve on the board.
IATA said the leadership change marks another stage in the group’s governance, which brings together airline executives from across the industry to guide its work on aviation policy, standards and commercial priorities.
Alvo leads LATAM Airlines Group, one of the largest airline groups in Latin America, and his appointment places him at the head of an organisation that represents carriers around the world. The board chair role is rotated among senior airline leaders and is typically held for 12 months.
IATA did not give further details on Alvo’s priorities for the term. However, the appointment comes as airlines continue to focus on profitability, supply chain constraints, aircraft delivery delays and the recovery of international travel demand.
The association said Gallego would remain involved in the board after handing over the chairmanship, ensuring continuity in its leadership team.
Founded in 1945, IATA represents around 300 airlines and plays a central role in setting industry positions on safety, efficiency and sustainability. The board chair is one of the most visible roles in the group, helping to shape the agenda for airlines globally.
Alvo’s appointment also underlines the growing influence of Latin American aviation in international industry leadership. LATAM has been expanding its network after years of restructuring and remains a key operator across South America and beyond.
The transition was confirmed after the annual meeting, which is one of the aviation industry’s main gatherings and brings together airline bosses, policymakers and suppliers to discuss the sector’s outlook.
For travellers, board leadership changes at IATA do not usually bring immediate operational effects. But the association’s decisions can influence long-term industry standards, including how airlines approach passenger experience, digital identity, emissions policy and route development.
Alvo’s new role begins as global airlines navigate volatile fuel prices, geopolitical uncertainty and intense competition on major international routes. His term is expected to run through the next year before the chairmanship passes to another board member.
