Shared Responsibility: The Role of Governments and Industry in Unlocking Latin America’s Air Transport Potential

Lima, October 20, 2025 – At a time when the region reaches its highest level of air connectivity, with more than 6,200 active routes and 194 new ones added over the past year, Latin America’s aviation leaders gather at the 21st ALTA AGM & Airline Leaders Forum 2025 with a clear message: aviation is not a luxury — it is a necessity that drives economic development. And, as such, it demands shared responsibility.

According to Peter Cerdá, ALTA’s CEO, Latin America and the Caribbean are more connected than ever, but high taxes, limited infrastructure, and excessive regulation continue to constrain their potential. “We are not asking for privileges, only clear and fair rules. If we act with vision and urgency, we can carry 600 million new passengers over the next two decades and measure our success not in numbers, but in lives transformed by connectivity.”

Roberto Alvo, ALTA President and CEO of LATAM Airlines Group, emphasized that aviation can and must be a strategic partner for governments. “We are not just an industry that transports passengers. We are a driver of development that creates jobs, boosts tourism, and connects opportunities. To unlock our full potential, we need coherent public policies and a shared vision. If we work together, aviation can be the lever that accelerates growth and regional integration.”

From a global perspective, Juan Carlos Salazar, Secretary General of ICAO, noted that ALTA’s support is key to advancing together toward a safer, more sustainable, and more competitive aviation sector. “The decisions we make today will define the course of our industry for decades to come. We will work with States and the industry to strengthen safety, modernize air navigation, and promote clear, fair, and harmonized regulation. Taxes must be predictable and transparent, and sustainability must be a shared commitment for everyone.”

Aracelly Nancy Laca Ramos, Peru’s Vice Minister of Tourism, stated that the government must work hand in hand with ALTA and all industry stakeholders. “Peru is advancing with a clear vision of growth and connectivity. Our air exports grew by 25% this year, and the new Jorge Chávez Airport consolidates the country as South America’s logistics and tourism hub. Every route, every alliance, and every forum strengthens not only air transport, but also tourism, trade, and national development. The sky is not the limit — it’s the route. And along that route, we want to keep moving forward with you toward a more prosperous future for the entire region,” said Ramos.

With these remarks, the opening of the ALTA AGM & Airline Leaders Forum 2025 marked the beginning of two days of discussions on competitiveness, innovation, sustainability, infrastructure, and connectivity — a gathering where the regional industry aims not only to adapt to change but to lead it.