CANCUN, Mexico – The 19th edition of the ALTA AGM & Airline Leaders Forum officially began on the morning of October 22 at the JW Marriott Resort in Cancun.
On this occasion, over 400 leaders from the Latin American industry are gathering to discuss the current state of the region, its challenges, and future prospects. At the morning’s first press activity, attendees included Adrián Neuhauser, President of ALTA (and Deputy CEO of Avianca and Grupo Abra); Ricardo Botelho, Executive Director and CEO of ALTA; General Miguel Vallin, Director of Mexico’s AFAC (Federal Aviation Agency); and Bernardo Cueto, Minister of Tourism for Quintana Roo.
Key topics discussed at the conference included the challenges of developing a sustainable strategy that remains economically viable without hindering the industry’s growth rate. The session also highlighted infrastructure deficiencies and the need to establish a regulatory and tax framework that boosts business and competition.
General Vallin provided an overview of Mexican aviation following its anticipated exit from Category 2, expressing optimistic expectations for the next five years, aiming to reach 126 million annual passengers.
Subsequently, software provider SITA showcased new systems being implemented with Azul Linhas Aéreas: OptiClimb, eWAS, and Mission Watch.
Wrapping up the day’s press activities, Landon Loomis, President of Boeing for Latin America and the Caribbean, presented the manufacturer’s forecast for the region. According to estimates, considering a 2.8% annual regional GDP growth, Latin America will require 2,105 new aircraft, 92% of which will be narrow-body. These projections are a downward revision from the company’s 2021 and 2022 predictions, which stood at 2,610 and 2,530 aircraft, respectively.
