Fourth IATA WSS to Take Place in Brussels as Air Transport Faces Critical Decarbonization Policy Decisions
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced that the fourth World Sustainability Symposium (WSS) will take place in Brussels, Belgium, on 13–14 October 2026. This event is shaping up to be one of the most important gatherings for aviation’s decarbonization efforts.
Why Brussels?
- Brussels is the heart of European policymaking, where many of aviation’s sustainability regulations are shaped.
- Hosting WSS there ensures direct dialogue between industry leaders and policymakers, aiming to align ambitions with practical frameworks.
Focus Areas
The agenda zeroes in on three critical themes:
1. Scaling energy transition solutions — especially “low-hanging fruit” like HEFA Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), Low Carbon Aviation Fuels (LCAF), and co-processing.
2. Policy design and harmonization — building transparent, competitive markets for SAF, carbon credits, and other decarbonization tools.
3. Innovation and understanding — tackling non-CO₂ effects, lifecycle sustainability, and emerging technologies.
Confirmed Speakers
A strong lineup of leaders from across aviation, energy, finance, and government, including:
- Roberto Alvo (CEO, LATAM Airlines Group)
- Eddy Liégeois (DG MOVE, European Commission)
- Cynthia Ní Mhurchú (Member of European Parliament)
- Paolo Frankl (International Energy Agency)
- Jonathon Counsell (Group Head of Sustainability, IAG)
- Bertrand de Lacombe (VP Sustainability, Airbus)
- Denise Pronk (Head of Sustainability, Schiphol Airport)
Strategic Timing
Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA’s SVP Sustainability & Chief Economist, emphasized that the challenge isn’t ambition but the pace of scaling interdependent solutions. With energy security and competitiveness at stake, this dialogue is especially timely.
Linked Events
For the first time, WSS will run consecutively with Wings of Change Europe (WOCE) on 15 October 2026, creating a full week of sustainability and aviation strategy discussions.
In essence, WSS 2026 is designed to accelerate aviation’s path to net zero by 2050, while balancing sustainability with competitiveness and connectivity.
