Santiago in Chile to Host the Landmark 16th Wings of Change Americas Conference in April 2026 Revolutionizing Aviation and Economic Growth

Santiago de Chile, the vibrant heart of Chile and one of South America’s most dynamic cities, is set to host the much-anticipated 16th edition of the Wings of Change Americas (WOCA) Conference. This premier event, scheduled for 8–9 April 2026, promises to be a milestone for the aviation sector. More than 400 aviation leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders will gather in the Chilean capital to discuss the crucial themes of connectivity, sustainability, and economic transformation in Latin America and the Caribbean.

As LATAM Airlines takes on the role of the event’s host airline, the conference is poised to shape the future of air travel across the Americas. With the theme “Beyond Borders – Aviation as a Catalyst for Economic Transformation,” the WOCA conference will explore how the aviation industry can collaborate more effectively with government bodies to expand regional connectivity, drive economic growth, and strengthen Latin America’s competitiveness in the global arena. The event is an exciting opportunity to highlight the region’s potential to transform through strategic partnerships within aviation and beyond.

A Focus on Regional Connectivity and Economic Transformation in Latin America

Santiago will be buzzing with the discussions and debates that aim to reshape the aviation landscape across Latin America and the Caribbean. This two-day event is set to feature a rich agenda, including panel discussions, workshops, and roundtables with experts from all corners of the aviation sector. Attendees will gain valuable insights into how the sector can contribute to broader regional goals such as sustainable development, enhanced trade flows, and digital transformation.

The role of technology in driving these advancements will be a key focus. As industries worldwide embrace the potential of artificial intelligence and smart systems, Latin America is positioning itself as a key player in adopting innovative solutions that foster a more sustainable and efficient aviation industry. The conference will feature key discussions on the development and implementation of technology to enhance air travel efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and improve passenger experience.

Moreover, the conference will underscore the importance of air cargo and its role in supporting international trade flows. With increasing global commerce and regional production, air freight is more crucial than ever to ensuring that goods reach markets across the globe swiftly and securely. By addressing these crucial elements, the WOCA event aims to reinforce aviation’s role as a driver of both economic growth and job creation in Latin America.

Sustainability and Innovation: Tackling Challenges for a Greener Future

One of the most anticipated sessions of the 16th WOCA will focus on Sustainability & Innovation. As Latin America continues to face challenges related to climate change and environmental degradation, the aviation sector is stepping up to play its part in achieving net-zero carbon emissions. Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), carbon offset initiatives, and innovative flight technologies will be discussed, with the aim of helping the region overcome barriers to achieving its green aviation goals.

This session is crucial in light of global aviation’s increasing focus on sustainability. Regulatory frameworks, industry-wide agreements, and cooperation between airlines and governmental agencies will be central to these discussions. The goal is to ensure that aviation’s growth in Latin America occurs in harmony with the planet’s future, balancing economic advancement with environmental stewardship.

High-Level Discussions and Keynote Speakers

More than 400 top industry professionals are expected to attend the WOCA 2026 conference in Santiago. Among the confirmed participants are Roberto Alvo, CEO of LATAM Airlines Group, Daniel Belaunde, CEO of Sky Airline, and Estuardo Ortiz, CEO of JetSMART Airlines. These leaders will take the stage to share their expertise on everything from regulatory challenges to strategies for improving the customer experience. Their insights will provide invaluable guidance to regional policymakers and aviation executives seeking to enhance air travel in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The Airport Executive Roundtable will also provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss the latest trends in airport infrastructure development. As aviation traffic in the region grows, so too does the need for modern, efficient airports capable of accommodating rising passenger numbers and aircraft capacity. This roundtable will focus on how to expand airport capacity without sacrificing efficiency or passenger comfort.

A New Chapter for Aviation in Chile and Latin America

The 16th Wings of Change Americas Conference represents a unique opportunity to advance regional aviation discussions, as it will be the first such event in Chile to be attended by the newly elected administration. Chile’s role in shaping the future of aviation in Latin America cannot be overstated. The nation has emerged as a hub for air travel in South America, and hosting the WOCA conference will further solidify its position as a leader in aviation innovation.

The Economic Impact of Aviation in Latin America

Aviation is an economic powerhouse in Latin America and the Caribbean. The sector contributed more than USD 240 billion to the region’s GDP in 2023 and directly supported over 8.3 million jobs. These figures underscore the vital role aviation plays in the region’s overall economic growth. Projections show that by 2043, the aviation sector could support nearly 15 million jobs and contribute as much as USD 500 billion to regional GDP.

For many countries in the region, aviation is not just an economic driver but a social one as well, connecting communities and fostering closer trade relations. It is a crucial element in bridging geographical divides, allowing for the free flow of goods, services, and people across borders.

A Collaborative Approach for Regional Growth

The theme of collaboration runs throughout the Wings of Change Americas 2026 conference, emphasizing the importance of partnerships between aviation stakeholders, governments, and businesses. By working together, these groups can create solutions to the challenges that face the aviation sector. This can result in stronger connectivity, more accessible travel, and a more robust economy in the Americas.

The Wings of Change conference provides a platform for discussing not only the future of the aviation industry but also how it intersects with larger global trends such as sustainability, digitalisation, and economic development. As Latin America continues to evolve, aviation will play a significant role in shaping its future.

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