By Jose Ricardo Botelho, Outgoing Executive Director and CEO of ALTA

  • Over these years together, we have seen ALTA expand by 88%, reaching 184 members who represent the strength and dynamism of aviation in Latin America and the Caribbean

After nearly five years, today I address you with deep gratitude and emotion, as the time has come for me to bid farewell to my role as CEO of ALTA. It has been an immense privilege to serve this great community, whose commitment and vision have made possible the unprecedented growth of our organization. Over these years together, we have seen ALTA expand by 88%, reaching 184 members who represent the strength and dynamism of aviation in Latin America and the Caribbean.

As William Arthur Ward once said: “Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgiving, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.” This phrase reflects the essence of what we have achieved together: an organization that grows not only in numbers but also in purpose, impact, and the shared passion for strengthening aviation as a driver of development in our region.

Throughout this journey, I have found inspiration, learning, and an invaluable network of collaboration in all of you. Your trust has been the foundation of every initiative, every forum, every effort to make our industry safer, more efficient, and more sustainable . We have faced challenges and celebrated achievements, always with the conviction that the sky is not the limit but the beginning of new opportunities.

There have been many accomplishments we have achieved together over these years, which is why I see that every flight, every mile traveled, and every meeting was worth it, as it translated into the growth of an industry that brings well-being to so many people.

This has been possible thanks to an incredible team currently formed by Corrieri, Jaime, Johnny, Juan, Liliam, Mercy, Mirna, Milena, Monica, Nicole, Paulo, Pablo, Santiago, and Veronica. Additionally, I appreciate the support of iCorporate in our conferences. Thank you, team! Also, a special thanks for the patience and understanding of my family in the face of my absence—my wife, Izabela, and my children, Maria Giulia and Otavio Augusto.

I know that ALTA will continue to thrive with the same energy and determination that have made it the benchmark it is today. I deeply appreciate the unconditional support you have given me and the friendship that I will carry with me beyond these words.

I wish you clear skies and favorable winds.