LABACE 2025 exceeds expectations and reinforces the strategic role of business aviation in Brazil

The Brazilian General Aviation Association (ABAG) announces that the 20th edition of the LABACE (Latin American Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition) held from August 5th to 7th, this time at Campo de Marte Airport in Sao Paulo, once again established itself as the main meeting point for business aviation in Latin America. With 14,157 visitors over the three days, the event exceeded expectations and achieved excellent business results. Fifty-four aircraft were exhibited, with over 150 brands participating. The intense movement among the booths and aircraft on display reflected the high level of qualifications of the attendees, made up mostly of business owners, operators, executives, and enthusiasts from industry organizations. One of the highlights was TAM Executive Aviation, which announced the sale of nine aircraft directly during the event. It was also during LABACE that Airbus recorded the first sale in Brazil of its T-tail H140, the newest in its class. Preliminary expectations are that more than USD150 M will be sold in aircraft, equipment, and services, including the acquisition of new technologies showcased there in the coming weeks and an equivalent amount by the end of the year as a result of the impacts catalyzed by the event. In addition to the success of LABACE 2025, the latest data reinforces the positive momentum for business aviation in the country. According to a survey by ABAG, air traffic in the first half of 2025 was 32% higher compared to the same period the previous year, reaching its highest level since 2020. The survey, based on information from the Brazilian Aeronautical Registry (RAB) of Brazil’s Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) and the Air Navigation Management Center (CGNA) of the Department of Airspace Control (DECEA), also points to significant growth in the national fleet: an 18% increase in the number of jets, 13% in turboprops, and 10% in turbine helicopters. ABAG projects that, by the end of the year, business aviation will reach the historic milestone of 1 million flights in Brazil. With one of the largest fleets in the world, the country is consolidating its strategic position in the sector, offering a dynamic market that encompasses all types of operations, good airport and air navigation infrastructure, as well as a qualified workforce and recognized training centers. Despite the positive outlook, ABAG warns of risks that could compromise the sector’s competitiveness and sustainability. Among the main challenges are:  The application of the common IBS/CBS tax rate for activities in the segment; The selective tax on imports of aircraft and parts; The collection of IPVA (VAT) (except for air services) by the states of the Federation; Uncertainty regarding the impact of import tariffs by the United States on aircraft, parts, and equipment and possible increases in the tax burden for these groups, with reciprocity from the Brazilian government; Pressure from restrictions on ESG issues, such as environmental taxes and restrictions on operations at airport sites due to noise issues; and Shortage of specialized technical labor. – https://aeroin.net/labace-2025-supera-expectativas-e-reforca-papel-estrategico-da-aviacao-de-negocios-no-brasil/