Imagine standing alongside global aviation leaders, collectively shaping the industry's future. The IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS) offers precisely this opportunity—a premier platform convening top minds to drive transformative change. In 2026, this landmark aviation event will take place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, hosted by LATAM Airlines Group from June 6-8.
The Significance of IATA AGM and WATS
More than just a conference, this meticulously curated event fosters aviation industry development and collaboration. It brings together leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders worldwide to address challenges, explore opportunities, and develop solutions. Participation offers:
- Industry trend analysis: Gain insights into technological innovations, market developments, and emerging trends to inform strategic decisions.
- Strategic networking: Connect with potential partners, clients, and suppliers to expand business opportunities.
- Brand visibility: Showcase organizational capabilities and products before global aviation leadership.
- Standard-setting participation: Contribute to working groups that shape industry standards and practices.
Event Participation
This invitation-only summit primarily welcomes:
- IATA member airlines
- Accredited media representatives
- Key industry stakeholders, including government entities
- IATA AGM-level strategic partners
Program Highlights
The three-day agenda features:
- Executive plenary sessions: Keynote addresses from industry leaders on critical developments.
- Specialized panel discussions: Expert-led dialogues on pressing industry topics.
- Sector-specific meetings: Updates on specialized aviation segments.
- Exclusive networking events: High-level opportunities for relationship building.
IATA Strategic Partner Program: A 35-Year Legacy
For over three decades, the IATA Strategic Partner Program has served as a trusted global platform connecting aviation solution providers with decision-makers. This initiative facilitates collaboration among industry leaders, experts, and organizations to drive innovation.
Program benefits include:
- Direct engagement with IATA and airline executives
- Knowledge-sharing platforms to enhance industry influence
- Participation in critical industry initiatives
Strategic Partnership Advantages
Participants gain unique benefits:
- Collaborative solution development with industry leaders
- Access to exclusive conferences and expert exchanges
- Early access to industry reports and analytical insights
Strategic partners may participate in IATA working groups, lead initiatives, and contribute to standard development. AGM-level partners receive invitations to this premier summit for direct engagement with aviation leadership.
AGM-Level Strategic Partnership
This premium tier offers enhanced benefits:
- Elevated brand exposure during the summit
- Increased participation in IATA initiatives
- Greater influence in industry development
Showcasing Innovation
AGM-level partners receive dedicated sponsorship and exhibition opportunities to present innovative solutions before industry leadership.
Program Structure
The IATA Strategic Partner Program facilitates global collaboration across aviation value chains, offering multiple participation tiers:
- AGM-level: Maximum visibility and engagement
- Regional: Geographic-focused partnerships
- Thematic: Specialization in areas like safety or sustainability
Program Impact
Notable participants include Airbus, SITA, and Thales—each leveraging the program to enhance market positioning, expand regional presence, and strengthen technical leadership.
The program continues evolving to address aviation's dynamic challenges, with plans to broaden participation and deepen collaborative opportunities.