Looking back at what has been another outstanding year, I would like to take a moment to highlight and celebrate you, our IATA Strategic Partners. You have enriched our conversations, shared your valuable expertise and meaningfully engaged in meetings, forums, insight sessions and IATA Events through your participation in panel discussions, testimonials and networking opportunities.
2025 was indeed a special year.
Since it was established 35 years ago, the Strategic Partnerships Program has become the key engagement platform that brings the industry together to make air transport stronger and more resilient. We have collectively benefited through the exchange of ideas and best practices, developing standards with a priority on safety, while positioning our industry for success.
This year has also seen the number of Strategic Partners surpass the 500 mark for the first time, ending 2025 with close to 520 Partners. With more than 30 areas of involvement, our new Partners have brought fresh perspectives and insights, particularly in areas of significant importance to the industry. The number of Partners in the Sustainability group has more than doubled to 52 while those who joined the Data and Technology Proof of Concept area of involvement has skyrocketed.
I also want to assure you that we have taken your suggestions into account during the year, including adding new areas of involvement. I am pleased that this has resulted in the successful launch of the new Payments area this past June. Payment is a $22bn challenge for our industry and we look forward to robust discussion around this topic at the next annual Payments Day, which will take place in June 2026 in Geneva.
As we enter 2026, there is much to look forward to. In June LATAM Airlines Group will host IATA’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on 6-8 June 2026. This is a prime opportunity for our Strategic Partners at AGM-level to engage with senior executives from 150 airlines, the media, as well as key representatives from regional and international associations and organizations.
The AGM is by no means the only event where we bring together decision-makers. I invite you to take a look at our list of upcoming IATA events, which are included in our Calendar of Meetings.
Finally, as we prepare for the upcoming holiday season and ring in the New Year, let us take a moment to reflect on all that has been achieved, the new relationships forged and the steps taken to make our industry even stronger. Our vision of working together to shape the future growth of a safe, secure and sustainable industry that connects and enriches our world is one we all contribute to and should all be proud of.
I look forward to seeing you soon at an upcoming meeting or IATA event and take this opportunity to thank you for your valuable partnership.
With my warmest regards,
Sebastian TIRADO
Head – IATA Strategic Partnerships Program
