LATA Expo Conference 2025

We hope everyone found this morning’s LATA Expo Conference interesting. We have summarised the sessions for anyone unable to attend, which we hope is of use.

Thank you to travel journalist and presenter  Simon Calder for expertly guiding us through the morning, and for sharing some of his own insights and experiences.

Growing Connectivity: There’s an increase in direct flights between the UK and Latin America, with routes like London to São Paulo and British Airways flights to Cancun being particularly popular. New flight connections are being launched, such as KLM’s route via St. Martin to Georgetown, and Condor’s Frankfurt to Panama service, boosting accessibility to Latin America.

Volatility in Travel Climate: Many travellers still route through the U.S., but face difficulties due to strict immigration policies and screening, particularly under Trump-era regulations, creating uncertainty for younger travellers. Political instability (especially from the U.S.) is contributing to volatility in international travel. However, a stronger Euro and Sterling against the dollar is benefiting European travellers.

Cultural & Sports Events Driving Interest: Latin America is drawing global attention through cultural and sporting events like Formula 1 in Mexico and the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening match in Mexico City.

Latin America’s Unique Appeal: The region stands out with its authentic cultural heritage, Indigenous communities, biodiversity, and unmatched nature experiences (e.g., Amazon, Galápagos). There’s a push to keep Latin America attractive compared to closer, potentially cheaper destinations. Emphasis is on its unique spirit and richness of experiences.

 

WANDERLUST READER SURVEY HIGHLIGHTS

96% of Wanderlust readers say the magazine inspires them to visit new destinations. Readers tend to be affluent, 59% female, with an average age in the 50s (younger digitally). Many are solo travellers and prioritize sustainability.

According to the reader survey, the most desired destinations are Costa Rica, Argentina, Mexico, Chile, and Peru. However, exposure in the magazine significantly boosts interest in underrepresented countries.

More recent digital trends show Peru as the top-performing destination, followed by Colombia, Brazil, and Ecuador

The biggest draws to Latin America are wildlife and nature, followed by history, heritage, indigenous culture, and increasingly food and drink. Rail travel and road trips are also trending.

95% of readers said they would avoid destinations they believe are over-touristed, highlighting the rising importance of sustainable travel choices. TV programs like Race Across the World and its celebrity versions significantly influence UK travellers’ destination choices. They can spike interest in featured regions almost instantly.

Europe remains the top destination for Wanderlust readers, with Asia rising fast. North America is declining in popularity, while South America holds a stable 25% interest rate—ranking above Africa and Oceania.

You can view the Wanderlust Reader Survey here: WSUMMIT LATA Expo SLIDES 2-compressed

CONSUMER TRAVEL TRENDS

Lyn Hughes – Wanderlust Travel Media

Mary Menchan – Mabrian

Daniel Benians, Distinctive Americas

Jascivan Carvalho, Tropic Travel

Mary Menchan from Data insights company Mabrian shared statistics and information regarding sentiment for travel to Latin America. Ecuador, Peru, and Costa Rica score highest in traveller satisfaction.

Air Connectivity Insights: Costa Rica relies heavily on international arrivals (95% of air seats), while Brazil is dominated by domestic travel. Argentina and Brazil show strong bilateral travel, and Ecuador has increased its domestic connectivity. Security and climate perceptions are generally positive across all countries.

Outbound Growth: Daniel Benians from Distinctive Americas shared that while the market can feel unpredictable—with both highs and lows—their business just had its best-ever month (May 2025), breaking previous records.

Inbound Growth: Jascivan Carvalho, from Tropic Travel reported strong inbound growth, particularly from the UK (up 60%), despite initial concerns from political events in the U.S. and Latin America.

Both Daniel and Jascivan noted that travellers are booking closer to departure dates due to uncertainty. Long-haul, high-budget trips are harder to confirm in advance. There’s a noticeable hesitancy from travellers and travel agents to commit early, driven by concerns about political instability and global events.

Perception vs. Reality: Latin America is still perceived as relatively safe and appealing, even with political instability. Travelers are curious and resilient, particularly those familiar with the region.

Overtourism Concerns: There’s growing awareness around managing tourist volume in fragile destinations like the Galápagos and Machu Picchu, with businesses emphasizing responsible and planned travel.

You can see the Mabrian report in full here: LATA Expo Mabrian Presentation

 

CYBER SECURITY – TOP TIPS AND KEY TAKEAWAYS

Lloyd Figgins – CEO, The TRIP Group

1. Cybersecurity in travel risk management is essential, not only when traveling but also for office environments, as cyber threats are increasing globally.
2. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable — 60% go out of business within six months of a cyberattack, emphasizing the importance of protection and awareness.
3. Common cyber threats include phishing (deceptive emails), ransomware (holding data hostage), malware (harmful software), impersonation scams, and insider threats.
4. ‘Stop, Think, Check’ is a key practice for identifying phishing attacks: never click suspicious links, verify senders independently, and use strong passwords with two-factor authentication.
5. Malware often comes from downloading unverified files or clicking fake websites. Employees must be trained as they are the first line of defense.
6. Ransomware locks systems and demands payment. Often, paying the ransom doesn’t work — regular backups and staff training are crucial to resilience.
7. Impersonation scams frequently involve emails from someone pretending to be a trusted authority (e.g., a CEO). Always verify financial requests by phone using known contact methods.
8. Insider threats, either malicious or accidental, account for over 74% of data breaches. Limiting access and regular training helps reduce risk.
9. Public Wi-Fi and USB ports can be used to install malware or steal data. Use VPNs, avoid auto-filling forms, and never use unverified cables or memory sticks.
10. Organizations should implement cybersecurity protocols for traveling employees and ensure all staff are trained and aware of the evolving threats.

TRIP-Group-Cyber-Summary-SheetTRIP-Group-Cyber-Summary-Sheet

CURRENT SUSTAINABILITY ADVANCES IN AVIATION – KEY TAKEAWAYS 

Andy Jefferson – A&G Jefferson

Ronei Silva – LATAM

Jonathon Counsell – IAG

Simon Calder 

Danny Callaghan – LATA

1. Aircraft today are approximately 80% more fuel-efficient and 75% quieter than those in the 1960s. This evolution reflects sustained engineering advances and evolving industry priorities.
2. Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is currently the most viable solution for decarbonizing long-haul flights. Despite high costs (3–5x traditional fuel), production is increasing, and industry efforts aim to scale it to 20 million tons by 2030.
3. Global Mandates and Scaling Challenges: The EU and UK mandate minimum SAF blending levels (2% currently, aiming for 10% by 2030). Technical limits (50% blend) and infrastructure development pose scaling challenges.
4. Supply Chain and Aircraft Delivery Issues: Airlines face difficulties acquiring new, more efficient aircraft due to production delays and geopolitical factors. This affects sustainability progress, prompting some to bring older aircraft back into service.
5. Community and Circular Economy Initiatives: Airlines like LATAM engage in uniform recycling programs and collaborate with local communities to repurpose materials—empowering women and promoting sustainable business models.
6. Waste Reduction and Regulatory Hurdles: Efforts to reduce onboard waste and single-use plastics are ongoing, though some practices (e.g., plastic-wrapped blankets) are still required by regulation. Industry pushes for regulatory evolution.
7. Future Vision and Collective Commitment: The industry emphasizes its unified, passionate commitment to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. Though technological, political, and market challenges persist, collaboration across aerospace, airlines, and governments is key.

Andy Jefferson provided the closing quote for the discussing: “Aviation is proof that given the will, we have the capacity to achieve the impossible.” This sentiment underlines the belief in human innovation and the aviation industry’s capability to rise to the sustainability challenge.

Find out more here: LATA Expo Sustainable Aviation