LATAM Airlines Group completed its first 13 passenger charter flights using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) , a project that is part of its sustainability strategy and its goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

The flights operated between Santiago, Chile, and Ushuaia, Argentina , and were allocated 22,400 gallons of SAF (Safety and Fuel Oil) under the Book and Claim chain of custody methodology . This initiative marks the airline’s first emissions reduction project associated with passenger charter operations, developed in partnership with a client.

“This operation together with Ponant Explorations demonstrates that today there are already concrete mechanisms for our customers to be part of the reduction of emissions associated with their air operations, while we continue to promote the development and adoption of sustainable aviation fuels in the region,” said Thibaud Morand, LATAM Airlines’ general manager for Europe, Asia and Oceania.

He explained that the reduction of 160 tons of emissions was calculated following the methodology established by CORSIA (Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation), of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) , comparing the emission factors of the Jet-A1 fossil fuel with those of the SAF used.

“This collaboration with LATAM represents another step in our commitment to more sustainable tourism,” commented Wassim Daoud, Director of CSR and Sustainable Development at Ponant Explorations.

LATAM Airlines Group is working on fleet modernization, operational efficiency, promoting the use of SAF and offsetting emissions through strategic projects for the region as a complementary measure.

For an aviation company, fuel represents between 30% and 40% of operating costs, so SAF is an alternative to achieve its sustainability goals.

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Grupo Aeroméxico has formed a strategic alliance with Grupo Bimbo through which it will promote the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in its corporate and business travel in Latin America.

With this alliance, the first of its kind in the region, both companies combine capabilities, vision and commitment to accelerate the reduction of emissions through the use of SAF , joining efforts to move towards more sustainable aviation.

The reduction of emissions will be certified through internationally recognized mechanisms for the allocation and traceability of the SAF.

“This alliance reflects how collaboration can accelerate the transition to more sustainable aviation in Mexico and Latin America, driving concrete actions to reduce emissions in key activities such as business travel. The transition will only be possible through a network of partners committed to significantly reducing the environmental impact of their entire value chain and moving toward long-term goals for 2050. This agreement sets a precedent in the region and demonstrates that it is possible to move toward concrete, measurable solutions aligned with global climate challenges,” said Karen Farías, Director of Sustainability & ESG at Aeroméxico.

In this way, both companies will contribute to the mitigation of greenhouse gases; in the case of the airline, by reducing Scope 1 emissions generated by fuel use; while Grupo Bimbo will reduce its Scope 3 emissions, generated by business travel. This joint effort reinforces the long-term decarbonization goals of both organizations and consolidates their leadership in corporate sustainability.

“We have a clear goal for 2050: for Grupo Bimbo to be a net-zero carbon emissions company. To achieve this, initiatives like the one we have today with Aeroméxico contribute to this goal, which requires the joint work of all stakeholders throughout our value chain,” said Alejandra Vázquez, Global Director of Sustainability at Grupo Bimbo.

Furthermore, David Hernández, Global Purchasing Director at Grupo Bimbo, stated that “this alliance with Aeroméxico demonstrates how collaboration with strategic partners can help us reduce emissions beyond our direct operations and tangibly advance towards our goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.”

This collaboration represents a milestone for the airline industry in Mexico and Latin America , reflecting the commitment and vision of both organizations in integrating sustainability into their business models and corporate strategies; as well as in adopting tangible solutions to move towards a low-carbon economy.

Regarding Aeromexico, this initiative will allow it to continue moving towards its goal of net zero emissions by 2050, strengthening its leadership as one of the main drivers of the viability of sustainable aviation fuels in the region.

Currently, SAF is considered the leading solution available for reducing air transport emissions , as it allows for up to an 80% reduction in carbon emissions compared to conventional fossil fuels. It is produced from renewable raw materials such as organic waste and has the necessary certifications for its use, making it compatible with the current airline fleet.

Therefore, the initiative seeks to strengthen a culture of sustainability both within organizations and in society, promoting greater awareness of the importance of decarbonization. It is also part of Grupo Bimbo’s comprehensive decarbonization strategy, which addresses various aspects of the value chain, from agriculture to logistics and energy.

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Aviation in Latin America and the Caribbean requires more action and support to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 , as there are currently several obstacles such as economic and development disparities, limited infrastructure and variable regulatory capacities.

The above was part of the conclusions of the study “Net Zero Aviation in Latin America and the Caribbean: Pathways and Trade-offs” , carried out by the Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA) , with the technical support of ICF as a specialized consultant, which analyzed several alternatives to move towards this goal.

“There is a firm commitment from the industry to achieve Net Zero, but also a recognition that Latin America and the Caribbean face different structural conditions. Therefore, it is essential to rigorously analyze the region’s opportunities and challenges to define a roadmap that is realistic and sustainable over time, bearing in mind that aviation is not a luxury, but an engine of economic development,” stated Peter Cerdá, CEO of ALTA.

As part of the study, existing zero-emission policies and targets were reviewed , and country-by-country data was collected. Technical visits were also conducted to gather the most comprehensive and reliable data. Additionally, meetings were held with all stakeholders: national governments, civil aviation authorities, aircraft manufacturers, suppliers, and other interested parties . This information was used to develop reliable projections and scenarios for 2050.

The analysis highlighted that fleet renewal is one of the most effective measures , enabling significant improvements in fuel efficiency, operating costs, and environmental performance. The study indicated that several airlines in Latin America and the Caribbean have made significant progress in this area, with 38% of their capacity currently operated by new-generation aircraft, surpassing Europe and the United States (34%), and with investments already reaching US$40 billion, representing 1,100 new aircraft.

He explained that operational efficiencies are the most immediate and cost-effective measure, with potential savings of up to 11% in emissions . This includes route optimization, reduced ground time, and the use of digital technologies; however, the success of this pillar depends on coordinated action among governments, airports, and air navigation service providers.

Similarly, he specified that sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) represent the most powerful long-term tool , although their implementation faces significant barriers.

“SAF is between three and 12 times more expensive than conventional fuel, and its widespread adoption without government incentives could increase costs per seat by $43 and reduce air traffic by 30 percent. The region has the potential to be a major player in the global SAF industry thanks to its local raw materials, although scaling up its production will require supportive policies, infrastructure, and mechanisms to minimize the cost impact on passengers,” the analysis stated.

Another finding of the study was the potential of Latin America and the Caribbean in the carbon credit market, thanks to the diversity of its natural ecosystems, many of which are crucial for global environmental well-being. Between 2020 and 2024, the region issued 23% of global carbon credits, despite contributing only 6.7% of emissions. However, further work is needed to ensure that these nature-based solutions meet the international standards required by the aviation industry. “This is a complementary way to address emissions that cannot be directly reduced.”

The analysis also highlighted that the region’s aviation sector has already made concrete progress in fleet modernization ; that operational efficiency, supported by coordinated decisions and articulated regulatory frameworks, is positioned as one of the most immediate and cost-effective tools for reducing emissions, without ignoring the potential of other alternatives that require more time and specific conditions for their implementation.

“The priority is to lay the foundations for a progressive, inclusive and sustainable transition for regional aviation , in a joint effort with all actors in the aviation ecosystem,” he said.

He explained that operational efficiencies are an essential and immediate opportunity; improvements in aircraft, airports, ground operations and optimization of the flight profile alone offer a significant opportunity to reduce fuel consumption and emissions in the region, with potential savings of 3.3% to 11.3% by 2050 .

“Airlines in the Latin America and Caribbean region have already made significant progress in reducing their emissions through improvements in operational efficiency. However, achieving even greater efficiencies depends on greater government and stakeholder engagement, investment by airports and air navigation service providers, and coordinated action across the entire aviation ecosystem,” he concluded.

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Airports and Auxiliary Services (ASA) announced that over the next five years it will allocate resources to improve its fuel distribution infrastructure, in addition to participating in other businesses such as Mexicana’s MRO and biofuels .

“Participate in a partnership for the acquisition and operation of Mexicana’s aircraft maintenance base (MRO), in order to contribute to the connectivity and development of the aeronautical sector in our country,” the organization indicated, without giving further details, in its 2025-2030 Institutional Program , released to the National Commission  for Regulatory Improvement ( Conamer) .

The above, he explained, is part of his new goals to enter strategic areas of air transportation by providing specialized services, advice, and technical consulting with the goal of strengthening the aviation sector.

Likewise, it announced that it will invest in priority infrastructure, such as new fuel stations and expanding the capacity of others . It will also renew its specialized equipment to provide highly qualified service through sustainable, efficient, and safe operations that comply with international standards.

“In this way, ASA will maintain its leadership in the aviation fuel market, helping to ensure that the benefits of progress are distributed more equitably throughout the country. It will also contribute to closing regional development gaps, guaranteeing quality services, and strengthening national energy security,” he stated.

To this end, it will increase the storage capacity of fuel stations in Oaxaca, Querétaro, Ciudad Juárez, and the Bajío region, in addition to building a tanker truck shuttle in polygon 2 of Mexico City International Airport (AICM) .

It will also complete the modernization of the infrastructure of the fuel station storage system in Cancún, the construction of new fuel stations in San José del Cabo, Tepic, and Puerto Escondido, the replacement of the turbo-sino pipeline at Terminal 1 of the AICM, and the renewal of the supply vehicle fleet.

Regarding sustainable aviation fuels , ASA will promote the development of infrastructure for storage and blending, with the construction of two bioturbosine centers in Mexico City and Cancun .

The agency noted that starting in 2027, eight Mexican airline operators must monitor, report, verify, and offset their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and net-zero emissions must be achieved by 2050 .

“Failure to comply with these agreements will continue to increase greenhouse gas emissions, reduce the ability to attract investment and tourism, and Mexico will lose competitiveness compared to countries with advanced sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) policies,” he stated.

He asserted that the lack of this type of fuel could limit the operations of international airlines in the country , in addition to putting Mexican airlines at a disadvantage compared to those that already use it.

In the case of specialized aeronautical personnel and in light of the deficiencies in training and certification, the Ministry will seek to create educational options by strengthening its International Training Center (CIIASA) and creating the Division of University and Postgraduate Studies.

“(It) contemplates the training of 150,000 professionals annually in strategic sectors, with the conviction that the country has the talent, capacity, and resources to consolidate itself as one of the most dynamic economies in the world,” he said.

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Latin America has the potential to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), however, barriers to growth remain, such as availability, cost, and a lack of public policies .

David Ortiz, Senior Fuel Manager at Aeroméxico , stated that Latin America has significant potential for biofuel development due to its wealth of natural resources and raw materials for its production.

He indicated that Brazil already has experience with ethanol production and the use of biofuels, while Mexico and Colombia are using technologies to generate its production.

“Our advantage as a Latin American country, as a Mexican country, is the availability of raw materials. The only challenge is being able to advance the regulatory and economic aspects that drive the projects. It’s a multidisciplinary work process, involving all ministries, associations, and industry, because otherwise, it won’t be a successful project,” he said during the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Outlook webinar in Mexico.

The specialist emphasized the need for incentives for the development of the SAF in order to secure investment.

Meanwhile, Diego Martínez del Río, Corporate Sustainability Manager at LATAM Airlines , said that one of the barriers to SAF is its high price , as this fuel represents between 30% and 40% of the cost structure.

In this regard, he commented that among the actions they are taking to remove these barriers is accessing scientific information for the creation of public policies, such as the study, carried out in conjunction with industry participants, to decarbonize the industry, specifically in six countries in the region, including Mexico.

“The study identified that, without a doubt, the country best suited to producing SAF in our region is Brazil, for a combination of different reasons. First, it has abundant biomass production capacity and a very mature biofuels industry. They have been producing biofuels successfully for over 40 years, and they have the raw materials and the know-how,” he emphasized.

Along these lines, he noted that Mexico has a very broad range of biomass resources, but it still lacks the experience to do so. “Beyond the public policies currently underway, what Mexico and the region in general need is evidence-based public policies, not necessarily rushing out and trying to do what Europe or the United States is doing.

He considered that the country needs more in-depth studies on the raw material , although the opportunity lies in the sugarcane industry for the generation of first- and second-generation SAF based on ethanol.

For his part, Mauricio Arellano, Senior Manager, Infrastructure & Airport Services at Viva Aerobus , indicated that in Mexico it is necessary to strengthen the regulatory framework, which will allow both socially and economically to generate strengths for meeting the 2050 goals in the use of SAF.

“In the country, demand is around five billion liters; we hope to become the second largest consumer of jet fuel,” he explained.

Diana Olivares, second vice president of the National Chamber of Air Transport (Canaero) , said that the organization is working on a roadmap that is “ad hoc” to the region and costs.

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Jesús Esteva, head of the SICT, stated that the proposal seeks to strengthen the Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC) , the Mexican Air Navigation Services (Seneam) , and the Airports and Auxiliary Services (ASA) .

“We have announced the update of aeronautical policies, which is important given the advances in various technologies and systems, and therefore we must review the regulations and adapt them to current conditions. There are certain lines of aeronautical policy that must be updated and strengthened,” Esteva said in an interview on the occasion of the ASA’s 60th anniversary.

For his part, the head of AFAC, General Miguel Enrique Vallín, explained that this new roadmap will be governed by six strategic axes in regulatory matters, international cooperation, and sectoral goals .

The fourth axis addresses aeronautical human capital , which will seek to address the growing global and national shortage of qualified pilots and technicians; the fifth, resilience and crisis management , will address, among other issues, the development and design of contingency plans to address economic crises or natural disasters.

Finally, there is the issue of aeronautical governance , which seeks to optimize administrative processes, provide technical and human resources, and establish permanent mechanisms for cooperation between public-private and international entities in the sector.

“The challenges we have shared today on the road to 2040 are not real obstacles; they are concrete tasks for the future within our responsibilities, and we assume them with full responsibility and commitment. With work, effort, and dedication, we will easily overcome all these challenges, and even more so if we have the support of the sector,” Vallín said.

Likewise, Jesús Esteva stated that one of the current administration’s goals is to implement the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) , and he announced that the first flight using SAF is being planned for the end of the year.

Regarding this, Carlos Manuel Merino Campos, director of ASA, mentioned that they will purchase this product abroad. ” It will be a symbolic flight , and later, product will be purchased to make the blend and supply. The current agreement is that there is tolerance, but as the years go by, it will become mandatory.”

He also commented that they are nearing completion of the first plant to receive the necessary components to carry out the mixtures to produce SAF at their facilities, and by next year another one will be built in Cancun, with an investment of around 300 million pesos (mdp) .

“At first, supply will be lower than demand, but it will continue to grow until the pyramid is inverted over the next 25 years. What comes next? Having Mexico’s first SAF-producing biorefinery is the next step, and having one or more in the next decade,” he emphasized.

He assured that they have held meetings with different companies interested in investing in that project .

Merino explained that the sustainable fuel is produced using solid waste, such as garbage, sugarcane remains, agricultural waste, recycled oils, and various blends.

The SICT said that ASA went from distributing 53% of jet fuel nationwide in 2024 to 97% this year , thanks to the strategic alliances it has formed with private companies.

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Given the need for an energy transition and the pursuit of energy security, it has been argued that Mexico’s future holds an emerging market for the development and use of less polluting electric fuels.

These fuels, also known as e-fuels, are produced from renewable energy sources and, in many cases, can represent an innovative solution for reducing carbon emissions in sectors that are more difficult to achieve direct electrification, such as aviation and maritime transport.

Honeywell emphasized in a statement that the future implementation of these alternatives would not only boost the country’s competitiveness in the energy sector, but could also strengthen its commitment to environmental protection and international cooperation for a cleaner and more sustainable future, as their combustion is climate-neutral.

Especially considering that the CO2 they emit comes from particles already in the atmosphere and not from hydrocarbons extracted from the ground, as in the production of renewable aviation fuel (SAF) , which is closely tied to the availability of sustainable raw materials and even to current competitive costs that impact the future.

In 2023, the aviation industry was responsible for 2.5% of global energy-related carbon dioxide emissions , according to the International Energy Agency . This highlights the potential benefits of introducing innovations like SAF to forge a safer and more sustainable future.

“The demand for and use of SAF as an alternative fuel is growing in other Latin American countries. For example, Honeywell holds more than 50 licenses for renewable fuel technologies around the world. Specifically in Latin America, where our company provides technology for SAF development, together with Embraer, we announced successful tests with 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), marking the first flight exclusively using emission-free technologies in this region. The test demonstrated that the aircraft’s engine functioned perfectly, dispelling any doubts that the fuel would be inferior to its petroleum-based version,” said Leon Melli, Director of Sales for Honeywell Energy & Sustainability Solutions for Latin America .

In Mexico, the government is currently working on developing a pilot blending plant project with the ultimate goal of beginning to produce sustainable aviation fuels by 2030 to meet the sector’s current and future needs and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

For their part, Mexican airlines have independently taken the initiative to meet emissions reduction targets , facing the challenge of a lack of SAF production and refining plants.

Honeywell, an integrated operating company that provides various services, is aligned with the energy transition and is working to continue bringing to Mexico all the advances of its Honeywell UOP eFining technology , which converts captured CO2 from the atmosphere and low-emission hydrogen into renewable aviation fuel.

E-fuels have the potential to significantly reduce aviation emissions . Renewable energy sources drive the conversion of CO2 and hydrogen into liquid e-fuels that are sustainable, high-performance, and can be implemented in existing aircraft without requiring major engine or infrastructure modifications.

If Mexico invests in technologies that enable the production of renewable fuels from a wider variety of raw materials in the future, as well as government policies and incentives, flights can be made to use at least 50% sustainable fuels.

Honeywell has already made significant progress in this area in other countries, such as the United States. United Airlines operated the first 100% SAF-powered passenger flight from Chicago to Washington, DC, using turbine fuel produced with Honeywell’s Ecofining technology.

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NASSAU, BHS. – From supply chain crises to the transition to sustainable fuels, Willie Walsh , Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) , outlined the challenges and opportunities facing the airline industry as the upcoming U.S. election and global mandates create an uncertain environment for airlines.

Speaking at the ALTA AGM & Airline Leaders Forum 2024 , Walsh made it clear that while there is progress on some fronts, many issues remain, requiring urgent attention and a strategic approach.

He said airlines are dealing with grounded aircraft waiting for parts needed for maintenance, which increases costs and complicates planning for future growth, creating caution in the industry, limiting the addition of new capacity and affecting aircraft reliability.

“Airlines are trapped in a cycle of uncertainty, where every delay in supply not only impacts operating costs, but also limits airlines’ ability to meet growing passenger demand,” Walsh said.

As the post-pandemic recovery continues, pressure on infrastructure and maintenance resources has led to a situation where many aircraft cannot be in service, further exacerbating the crisis.

On the other hand, the evolution of technology in the airline industry , although the improvement in engine efficiency has been notable, Walsh expressed his concern about the possibility that the technology has been pushed to the limit, thus affecting its reliability.

“Technological advancement is essential, but not at the expense of safety and operability. Airlines need confidence that engines and components will perform as expected,” he said.

Reliability problems, especially with engines, suggest the industry may have moved too quickly , which not only affects airline operations but also increases maintenance costs, which in turn impacts airfares.

Sustainable fuels: a necessary path

A central theme for Willie Walsh is the need to adopt sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) to achieve net-zero emissions commitments.

Walsh stressed that while there is a path laid out by IATA for the implementation of SAF, a concerted effort by all stakeholders is needed.

With 2025 targets looming, some airlines have begun to make voluntary commitments, but the issue of supply remains critical.

“Mandating the use of SAF without sufficient supply is a mistake. The industry has used every drop of SAF produced. The lack of production is affecting the sustainability of the industry and in turn increasing costs for airlines,” Walsh stressed.

He added that this situation could lead to higher prices for passengers, which could discourage consumers from flying , creating a vicious cycle that harms both the industry and end users.

Regulatory challenges and unequal competition

Walsh also spoke of the need for an equitable approach to global aviation regulation.

He stressed that EU regulations, which apply to intra-European aviation, could create distortions in competition, especially in the context of Russian airspace.

“The idea that some cannot use Russian airspace and therefore we restrict others is not fair. We should work to open this space for everyone, maximizing its efficient use,” he argued.

He also stressed that not all countries can move towards decarbonising aviation at the same pace, for example, countries like India, which are in the early stages of developing their airline industry , so they need an approach that allows them to grow without the same restrictions imposed on more mature markets.

“You can’t assume the world will move at the same pace. Aviation will continue to be a driver of economic growth, lifting people out of poverty and providing opportunities,” Walsh said.

He stressed that as the industry faces new challenges, there must also be a global commitment to ensure that aviation remains accessible and affordable for all.

“The reality is that the airline industry has historically been a driver of economic and social development. We must not lose sight of that fact as we navigate the complexities of sustainability and regulation,” he said.

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Speaking at the ALTA AGM & Airline Leaders Forum 2024 , Walsh made it clear that while there is progress on some fronts, many issues remain, requiring urgent attention and a strategic approach.

He said airlines are dealing with grounded aircraft waiting for parts needed for maintenance, which increases costs and complicates planning for future growth, creating caution in the industry, limiting the addition of new capacity and affecting aircraft reliability.

“Airlines are trapped in a cycle of uncertainty, where every delay in supply not only impacts operating costs, but also limits airlines’ ability to meet growing passenger demand,” Walsh said.

As the post-pandemic recovery continues, pressure on infrastructure and maintenance resources has led to a situation where many aircraft cannot be in service, further exacerbating the crisis.

On the other hand, the evolution of technology in the airline industry , although the improvement in engine efficiency has been notable, Walsh expressed his concern about the possibility that the technology has been pushed to the limit, thus affecting its reliability.

“Technological advancement is essential, but not at the expense of safety and operability. Airlines need confidence that engines and components will perform as expected,” he said.

Reliability problems, especially with engines, suggest the industry may have moved too quickly , which not only affects airline operations but also increases maintenance costs, which in turn impacts airfares.

Sustainable fuels: a necessary path

A central theme for Willie Walsh is the need to adopt sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) to achieve net-zero emissions commitments.

Walsh stressed that while there is a path laid out by IATA for the implementation of SAF, a concerted effort by all stakeholders is needed.

With 2025 targets looming, some airlines have begun to make voluntary commitments, but the issue of supply remains critical.

“Mandating the use of SAF without sufficient supply is a mistake. The industry has used every drop of SAF produced. The lack of production is affecting the sustainability of the industry and in turn increasing costs for airlines,” Walsh stressed.

He added that this situation could lead to higher prices for passengers, which could discourage consumers from flying , creating a vicious cycle that harms both the industry and end users.

Regulatory challenges and unequal competition

Walsh also spoke of the need for an equitable approach to global aviation regulation.

He stressed that EU regulations, which apply to intra-European aviation, could create distortions in competition, especially in the context of Russian airspace.

“The idea that some cannot use Russian airspace and therefore we restrict others is not fair. We should work to open this space for everyone, maximizing its efficient use,” he argued.

He also stressed that not all countries can move towards decarbonising aviation at the same pace, for example, countries like India, which are in the early stages of developing their airline industry , so they need an approach that allows them to grow without the same restrictions imposed on more mature markets.

“You can’t assume the world will move at the same pace. Aviation will continue to be a driver of economic growth, lifting people out of poverty and providing opportunities,” Walsh said.

He stressed that as the industry faces new challenges, there must also be a global commitment to ensure that aviation remains accessible and affordable for all.

“The reality is that the airline industry has historically been a driver of economic and social development. We must not lose sight of that fact as we navigate the complexities of sustainability and regulation,” he said.

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Just a few years away from celebrating its centenary, Iberia has consolidated its commitment to sustainability and its presence in Latin America. The airline, which currently connects 105 destinations in Latin America with Europe and Spain , has opted for a strategy that balances regional growth with environmental care, promoting more responsible aviation.

“We are at a crucial moment where we must think about the impact of our actions, both in environmental and social terms, and Latin America is fundamental to that vision,” said Beatriz Guillén, Iberia’s Global Sales Director, at the ALTA AGM & Airline Leaders Forum 2024.

Sustainability strategy: commitment to the environment

Iberia has structured its sustainability strategy around four pillars, which seek to reduce environmental impact, improve inclusion, enhance social impact and foster innovation. Among its most notable initiatives is the renewal of its fleet with aircraft such as the Airbus A350-900, which consume up to 35% less fuel, contributing to a significant reduction in the carbon footprint.

Guillén pointed out that this is one of the most important advances, because “we want to be part of the global solution. Reducing emissions is a challenge that we all share, and we are committed to reducing them by 10% by 2025 compared to 2019, and to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.”

Iberia is also investing in the use of sustainable fuels (SAF) and has begun to collaborate with startups and companies in the energy sector to develop these fuels, specifically in Spain.

However, Beatriz Guillén emphasized the current challenges of this industry and stated that the production of sustainable fuels is still limited and expensive , which is why greater government investment and collaboration with the private sector is required for its use to become a reality on a large scale.

Despite advances in biofuels, their production remains a challenge in Latin America.

“We have not yet begun to work on how to obtain biofuel in the different Latin American countries, and I think that there is also a very important role for local airlines in also putting pressure on and promoting this industry directly from the local airline. At the end of the day, it is more a national project to be able to generate this. We are focusing on how to do it in Spain and trying to see all the countries that are beginning to generate it. But each airline should encourage this conversation,” explained Guillén in an interview.

Latam, a strategic pillar for Iberia and the case of Mexico

For Iberia, Latin America (Latam) is a key region , with a constant growth in demand for flights. The airline currently operates daily and weekly routes to Mexico, Argentina, Brazil and other countries, in addition to continuing to expand its network of destinations to meet the growing demand of Latin American passengers.

“Latin America has been and will continue to be one of our main priorities. Our growth in this region has been double-digit, and we strive to maintain a robust operation that allows us to increasingly connect Latin American passengers with Europe and the rest of the world,” he said.

In an interview, he highlighted Mexico as one of the markets with the greatest growth and potential and assured that the demand for services is growing, as well as in markets such as Brazil, Argentina and Colombia.

“Mexican flights are going very well; they are full of both passengers and cargo. It is a market that could have much more capacity. What happens is that we need airplanes to be able to do that, but we are very happy with the demand that originates in Mexico. Even the demand to Mexico is quite balanced,” he said in an interview with A21.

Economic and social impact in the region 

Iberia’s commitment to Latin America is not limited to connectivity; it also encompasses the positive impact on local economies and job creation. The aviation industry in this region generates around 156,000 jobs, of which 73% are in Latin America, with average salaries between 20% and 30% higher than the average salary in the region. Iberia collaborates with various local partners and promotes responsible tourism, benefiting communities and generating a significant impact on the region’s economy.

“Aviation has the power to change lives, not just by connecting places, but also through the jobs and opportunities it creates,” Guillén said.

Iberia has implemented various technological initiatives to improve the customer experience. One of them is the possibility of managing complaints through WhatsApp, which allows for more agile and efficient communication.

In addition, the airline has optimized the infrastructure at Madrid airport to facilitate connections, offering a comfortable and efficient transit experience.

“We want every step of the journey, from booking to the final destination, to be a positive experience. We invest in technology and in improving our facilities because we want our passengers to feel well looked after and valued,” said Guillén.

Iberia Vision: sustainability with social impact

In addition to its environmental focus, Iberia has a strong commitment to social impact in Latin America . The airline participates in initiatives that support vulnerable communities and contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. For example, Iberia collaborates with organizations to facilitate medical treatment for Latin American children with serious illnesses, giving them access to health centers in Europe.

“We want to be a positive force in society. It’s not just about numbers, but about people and communities. We work with NGOs and local groups to make our impact in Latin America tangible and positive,” concluded Beatriz Guillén.

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