In June 2026, passenger traffic to, from, and within Latin America and the Caribbean reached 37.3 million passengers, down 2.3% year on year, equivalent to 893,000 fewer passengers. This was the region’s first monthly year-on-year decline since 2021. All three traffic segments ended the month in negative territory, and Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia recorded declines in the same month. Despite the June result, passenger traffic totaled 242.8 million in the first half of the year, 3.4% more than in the same period of 2025.
Key indicators:
Air Traffic in June 2026: Key Highlights
“Following several years of sustained growth, June marked the first year-on-year decline in regional air traffic since 2021. While the first half of the year added 8 million passengers, the slowdown observed since April, combined with the sharp increase in fuel prices, calls for caution. Today more than ever, it is essential to avoid imposing additional burdens on air transport and to promote policies that strengthen the region’s connectivity, investment, and competitiveness,” said Peter Cerdá, CEO of ALTA.
The full analysis, including details by country, international markets, new routes, and data on air traffic and the fuel cost environment, is available at: ALTA Traffic Report – June 2026
Glossary: RPK (Revenue Passenger Kilometers): number of paying passengers transported multiplied by the distance flown | ASK (Available Seat Kilometers): number of seats available for sale multiplied by the distance flown | Load Factor: obtained by dividing RPK by ASK.
Methodological Note
In this document, Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) is defined as the combined total of South America, Central America, the Caribbean, and Mexico. This definition is applied consistently across all regional and international traffic analyses.
Domestic traffic refers to flights operated within the same country. International traffic is classified into two broad segments:
Attorney and Master in Public Policy with more than 10 years of experience in regulatory affairs, government relations, and public policy strategy across Latin America. Currently serves as Head of Government Affairs at the Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA), leading engagement with governments, regulators, and international organizations to advance policies that strengthen air connectivity and the development of the aviation sector in the region. Brings strong experience in regional regulatory positioning, high-level stakeholder management, and the coordination of complex public policy agendas across multiple countries. Has represented organizations in strategic forums and decision-making processes throughout Latin America. Recognized for building consensus and translating complex regulatory frameworks into initiatives that enhance industry competitiveness and sustainability.
María José has solid experience in strategic communication, reputation management, crisis handling, and institutional positioning for organizations with a global scope. Throughout her career, she has developed 360° communication strategies and media visibility initiatives for companies across various sectors, including energy, financial services, and hospitality, with the goal of strengthening corporate reputation and engagement with key audiences.
Johnny is a Public Accountant graduated from Santa Maria University in Caracas, Venezuela. He has over 30 years of experience in service and manufacturing companies in the Administration, Accounting and Finance areas, leading the implementation of administrative and financial systems and restructuring of the accounting department. In January 2009, he joined ALTA as head of Administration and Finance with the objective of preparing the financial statements and responsible for the external audit, updating internal procedures, controlling assets and coordinating IT services and maintenance, providing forecasting and financial reporting to drive current and long-term profitability.
Carolina is a lawyer, specialized in International Law and Business since 2007. She has worked at Citibank, Asobolsa (as Legal and Administrative Vice President), IATA (as Government Affairs Manager), and more recently has provided consulting services in personal and professional development.
