Latin America and Caribbean Aviation Powerfully Unite in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic to Forge a Greener, more Affordable Future

In a decisive step toward transforming regional air travel, aviation leaders from across Latin America and the Caribbean have come together in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, for the 3rd ALTA Fuel & Sustainability Conference. This landmark gathering marks a unified commitment to tackling two of the industry’s most pressing challenges—sustainability and affordability. With jet fuel costs soaring and environmental pressures mounting, stakeholders are collaborating on bold strategies to lower emissions, promote sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and reduce operational expenses, forging a future where air travel is both greener and more accessible for millions across the region.

This week, the heart of the Latin American aviation sector beats in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, as the 3rd ALTA Fuel & Sustainability Conference gathers stakeholders from across the region. The event, organized by the Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA), takes place at a crucial time when the region’s aviation industry faces mounting pressure to address soaring jet fuel costs and implement urgent sustainability measures.

In a region where connectivity is key to economic integration, tourism, and business development, aviation plays a fundamental role. However, with jet fuel representing nearly 35% of airline operating costs in Latin America and the Caribbean—significantly higher than in other global regions—this essential industry is under strain. The high cost of fuel not only hampers profitability but also inflates airfares, making air travel less accessible to a broader segment of the population.

To navigate this complex landscape, ALTA’s conference creates a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and strategic planning. It brings together airlines, fuel suppliers, government authorities, aviation regulators, sustainability experts, and civil society stakeholders to explore viable pathways toward a greener, more efficient, and economically sound aviation future.

Jet Fuel Costs: A Central Challenge in Regional Aviation

Fuel accounts for a substantial share of airline expenses, and in Latin America and the Caribbean, it’s often the single largest cost. Due to fragmented supply chains, limited infrastructure, and import-related expenses, jet fuel is more expensive in this region than in other parts of the world.

This price disparity has long-term implications. Higher fuel costs not only erode airline profitability but also constrain efforts to expand air connectivity, particularly to underserved destinations. Passengers, too, feel the pinch. Increased operating costs ultimately lead to higher ticket prices, limiting accessibility and slowing the democratization of air travel.

One of the goals of the 3rd ALTA Fuel & Sustainability Conference is to address these disparities by seeking out collaborative solutions for optimizing regional fuel supply chains. These include discussions around improving refinery infrastructure, negotiating better import tariffs, and establishing regional fuel storage and distribution hubs.

SAF: The Future of Aviation Decarbonization

At the heart of the sustainability conversation lies the challenge of decarbonization—and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is leading the charge. SAF has the potential to reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% over its lifecycle compared to conventional fossil-based jet fuel. However, widespread adoption remains elusive in Latin America and the Caribbean due to two main barriers: high production costs and limited availability.

Experts at the conference are delving into innovative strategies to overcome these barriers. They are exploring public-private partnerships that can boost local SAF production, financial incentives to reduce costs, and new supply agreements that bring global SAF players into the regional market. The aim is to create an ecosystem that nurtures SAF as a commercially viable and environmentally critical fuel option.

Furthermore, the discussion includes technological advancements that can make SAF production more cost-effective, including feedstock innovation, synthetic fuels, and biofuel infrastructure.

Beyond SAF: Holistic Strategies for Green Aviation

While SAF is crucial, sustainability in aviation cannot rely solely on fuel innovations. The 3rd ALTA Fuel & Sustainability Conference broadens the lens, encompassing a suite of other initiatives aimed at lowering aviation’s environmental footprint.

Fleet Modernization
Airlines in the region are increasingly investing in next-generation aircraft that consume less fuel and emit fewer greenhouse gases. However, the high capital cost of new aircraft remains a challenge, particularly for smaller carriers. Regional leasing strategies and manufacturer partnerships are being discussed to enable broader fleet upgrades.

Operational Efficiencies
Streamlining air traffic management, reducing ground delays, and optimizing flight paths all contribute to emissions reductions. The conference includes sessions on digital solutions, including AI-based route planning and automated refueling systems.

Emission Offsets and Carbon Markets
With carbon offsetting gaining traction globally, stakeholders are examining regional mechanisms that allow airlines to participate in offset programs. This includes integrating with international frameworks like CORSIA (Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation).

Circular Economy Initiatives
In a groundbreaking move, the event also highlights circular economy principles, such as aircraft recycling, sustainable catering practices, and waste reduction in airline operations. These initiatives align environmental goals with cost efficiency, making them particularly attractive for implementation.

Climate Change and the Aviation Sector

Climate change is already affecting aviation across Latin America and the Caribbean. Rising temperatures, changing wind patterns, and more frequent extreme weather events disrupt flight operations and increase operational risks. The conference devotes a critical panel discussion to how climate-related disruptions are impacting airlines, airports, and passengers.

Experts from meteorological institutions and aviation safety authorities are sharing data-driven insights into the changing climate’s implications for regional airspace, runway performance, and flight scheduling. The panel will also explore investments in climate-resilient airport infrastructure, such as reinforced runways and stormwater management systems.

The Role of Regulation and Policy

Governments and regulatory bodies are pivotal in shaping a sustainable aviation future. The ALTA conference includes a focused dialogue on the role of policy in enabling innovation, reducing fuel-related costs, and accelerating decarbonization.

Key policy recommendations under discussion include:

• Eliminating or reducing taxes on SAF
• Facilitating regional SAF production through subsidies and land-use policies
• Harmonizing air traffic regulations to improve fuel efficiency
• Supporting research and development in clean aviation technologies

These discussions are further supported by the participation of the Dominican Institute of Civil Aviation (IDAC) and the Superior Academy of Aeronautical Sciences (ASCA), both of which play instrumental roles in aviation oversight and education.

Launch of a Regional Sustainability Roadmap

One of the highlights of the conference is the unveiling of a regional sustainability roadmap jointly developed by ALTA and the international consulting firm ICF. This roadmap is the product of months of stakeholder engagement and sets out key milestones for transforming the region’s aviation sector.

Key components of the roadmap include:

• A SAF adoption strategy with clear annual benchmarks
• A regional jet fuel price equalization initiative
• Cross-border agreements for air traffic optimization
• Green airport certifications and infrastructure modernization targets

Importantly, the roadmap involves governments, regulators, and private-sector players in a shared vision, ensuring that actions are both coordinated and measurable.

Why Santo Domingo?

Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, is fast emerging as a regional aviation hub. Its geographical location, growing air traffic, and government support for the aviation sector make it an ideal host city for this landmark event.

The Dominican government has demonstrated strong commitment to green aviation, including launching national strategies for sustainability and actively participating in international aviation forums. Hosting the 3rd ALTA Fuel & Sustainability Conference underscores the country’s leadership in sustainable air transport.

Aviation leaders from Latin America and the Caribbean have united in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, to drive bold solutions for greener skies and more affordable air travel across the region.

The Road Ahead: Toward a Greener Sky

As the 3rd ALTA Fuel & Sustainability Conference concludes, one message is clear: Latin America and the Caribbean are ready to lead the way toward sustainable, cost-effective, and inclusive aviation. Through collaboration, innovation, and decisive action, the region can overcome its challenges and become a global example of how to align environmental responsibility with economic resilience.

The conversations in Santo Domingo this week are more than just technical discussions—they are a commitment to the future. A future where air travel is not only accessible and efficient but also sustainable and climate-conscious.

With key stakeholders aligned and a strategic roadmap in place, the region is now poised to write a new chapter in aviation—one that balances progress with purpose and growth with green goals.

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