Latam CEO Roberto Alvo Succeeds IAG's Luis Gallego as IATA Board Chairman

Roberto Alvo, the chief executive of Latam Airlines, officially took over as the chairman of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) board on Sunday, June 7. He succeeds Luis Gallego, the CEO of International Airlines Group (IAG), for a one-year term. Alvo's appointment was announced at the opening of IATA's annual general meeting in Rio de Janeiro.

Alvo, a Chilean executive with Mexican birth and 25 years of experience in aviation, leads the dominant airline group in Latin America. His tenure as IATA chairman will extend until the 83rd annual general meeting, scheduled to be held in Xiamen, China. Gallego will continue to serve as a member of the IATA board.

"Presiding over the board at this time is a responsibility that I assume with great commitment," Alvo stated. He emphasized the need for the aviation sector to collaborate closely to enhance safety, boost efficiency, and advance sustainability, particularly as the industry navigates an increasingly complex global environment.

During Alvo's leadership at Latam, the airline group successfully navigated the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and underwent a financial restructuring process after filing for bankruptcy protection in the United States. His appointment signifies a continued focus on leadership from the Latin American aviation market within the global industry body.

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Presiding over the board at this time is a responsibility that I assume with great commitment. As we navigate a more complex environment, our sector must continue to work together to strengthen safety, improve efficiency, and promote sustainability.