Roberto Alvo Named New Chair IATA Board of Directors

Roberto Alvo, CEO of LATAM Airlines Group, has taken up duties as Chair of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Board of Directors. His one‑year term began on 7 June 2026, following the conclusion of IATA’s 82nd Annual General Meeting in Rio de Janeiro.

Alvo, who has served on the IATA Board since 2020, becomes the 84th Chair. He succeeds Luis Gallego, CEO of International Airlines Group (IAG), who will remain on the Board.

Aviation at a Defining Moment

“Aviation is at a defining moment, with an increasingly important role in connecting people, enabling trade, and supporting economic development,” Alvo said. “Chairing the IATA Board at this time is a responsibility I take with great commitment. As we navigate a more complex environment, our industry must continue working together to strengthen safety, improve efficiency, advance sustainability, and unlock the benefits of connectivity. I look forward to working with IATA’s members, governments, and industry partners to ensure aviation remains a force for opportunity, resilience, and growth.”

Experience and Leadership

With over 25 years in aviation, Alvo joined LAN Airlines (now LATAM) in 2001, holding leadership roles in finance, commercial, and strategy before becoming CEO in 2020. Shortly after his appointment, he guided LATAM through Chapter 11 restructuring and the COVID‑19 pandemic, overseeing the group’s successful emergence in 2022.

Under his leadership, LATAM has strengthened its position as Latin America’s leading airline group, expanding connectivity to more than 161 destinations across 27 countries while advancing its sustainability agenda and delivering strong financial performance.

Industry Support

“Luis Gallego has been a diligent and tireless Chair, particularly as we modernised IATA’s governance. I thank him for his great support,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General. “The Board will be in very safe hands with Roberto Alvo. Having guided LATAM through significant challenges to record profits, he has the experience to help IATA meet members’ needs during challenging times. We saw an example of his support by hosting a successful AGM in Rio de Janeiro.”

Future Appointments

IATA also announced that Mehmet Tevfik Nane, Chairperson of Pegasus Airlines, will serve as Board Chair from June 2027.