The aviation industry in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) is committed to reducing emissions in an effective and feasible manner—without compromising its core mission of connecting people, opportunities, and projects, and while continuing to drive economic development across the region.
(Quito, April 2026) – Within the framework of the global challenge of advancing towards net zero emissions by 2050, the Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA), with technical support from ICF as a specialized consultant, presents the study Net Zero Aviation in Latin America and the Caribbean: Pathways and Trade-offs, which analyzes different alternatives for advancing towards this goal.
“There is a firm commitment from the industry to achieve Net Zero, but also a recognition that Latin America and the Caribbean face different structural conditions. Therefore, it is essential to rigorously analyze the region\'s opportunities and challenges to define a pathway that is unique, realistic, and sustainable over time, bearing in mind that aviation is not a luxury—it is an engine of economic development: it contributes 3.6% of GDP and supports 2.9% of employment in this part of the world. Ensuring its growth and sustainability is not only key for the industry but also for the competitiveness and connectivity of our countries“, said Peter Cerdá, CEO of ALTA.
In this regard, ALTA conducted the study in partnership with ICF International, a consulting firm specializing in transportation, sustainable aviation, data analysis, and strategies for airlines and tourism.
The process included a review of existing policies and goals regarding net zero emissions and country-by-country information gathering, as well as technical visits to acquire genuine first-hand data. Additionally, meetings were held with all relevant stakeholders, including national governments, civil aviation authorities, aircraft manufacturers, suppliers, and other sector participants. Based on this information projections and scenarios through 2050 were developed.
The following findings stand out from the analysis conducted:
Taking these points into account, the study highlights that Latin American and Caribbean aviation has already achieved concrete progress in fleet modernization. It emphasizes that operational efficiency—supported by coordinated decision-making and harmonized regulatory frameworks—is positioned as one of the most immediate and cost-efficient tools for reducing emissions, while recognizing the potential of other alternatives that require more time and specific conditions for implementation. The priority is to lay the foundations for a progressive, inclusive, and sustainable transition for regional aviation, through a collaborative effort with all stakeholders across the aviation ecosystem.
To learn more about the details of this study, please click here
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.
