Aviation is a key enabler of economic growth and air cargo services helps countries like Guatemala get their products to global markets.
Based at Guatemala La Aurora International Airport, LAATS has been providing ground services for 25 years covering passenger and cargo handling, private flight services, VIP club management and airport security.
Mario Juarez, CEO of LAATS says that 2024 was one of the best years for air cargo in Guatemala with demand growing 8.3% over 2023, driven by e-commerce and maritime disruption.
Though 2025 is looking like another strong year with falling oil prices and continued growth in trade, there will be challenges with Juarez commenting, “The industry will still have to face changes in the geopolitical and economic landscape of Guatemala's main import/export air cargo markets.”
Juarez says the FBO division set new benchmarks by maintaining IS-BAH Stage 2 certification and delivering exceptional services for private travellers.
He says, “As the only certified FBO/Handler in Guatemala and Central America, we stand out not just for our certifications but also for our ability to consistently exceed the expectations of our clients and the industry.”
Looking back on 2024, it was a year LAATS could be proud of, winning several awards.
LAATS was awarded the Central American Company of the Year by the Latin America Quality Institute in Panama City, Panama, the Business Management Award from the Global Business Corporation in Costa Rica, and the year ended with winning the Best Station award at Ground Handling International’s Pride of Ground Handling Awards.
Using these as stepping stones to reach even greater heights, LAATS will expand its service portfolio, particularly in the private aviation and cargo sectors, strengthening its presence in new markets and launching new marketing and branding initiatives.
LAATS will invest in technology and training to maintain ISAGO, IS-BAH and other safety certificate, working with global airlines and increasing its presence at industry events, and investing in new equipment such as dollies, cargo loaders, GPUs and electric baggage tractors.
The investments in GSE will be significant, with Juarez saying, “We are currently increasing our presence with electric ground support equipment for handling and air cargo operations. In 2025, we also plan to import a significant amount of key ground equipment to improve our efficiency and service for air cargo clients.”
The growth in new markets is focused on Mundo Maya and Panama.
Juarez says Mundo Maya’s air cargo market is almost non-existent, adding it requires research and investment to achieve its potential. LAATS is also assessing the market potential in Panama.
Juarez says, “In Mundo Maya, the focus is on exploring infrastructure development to facilitate future air cargo services. In Panama, efforts are centred on creating partnerships and improving connectivity with regional and international markets.”
Serving the local market
LAATS is a 100%-owned Guatemalan company without involvement from international stakeholders.
Juarez says this gives LAATS flexibility to make decisions in the national interest and respond to local market needs.
He says, “It also allows us to reinvest profits into Guatemala, fostering local development and positioning ourselves as a company of national and regional pride. Our independence from international shareholders ensures that we maintain a unique identity, deeply rooted in Guatemalan values and culture.”
LAATS has been raising standards of aviation in Guatemala with international certificates including ISAGO, supporting economic growth and creating jobs, investing in infrastructure and sharing knowledge by attending international events.
Providing air cargo services allows Guatemala with connections to global markets and supply chains.
Juarez says, “Air cargo also promotes significant economic progress for developing countries by connecting them with markets across continents. High-value electronic components and perishable products such as food and flowers are transported worldwide, providing stable jobs and sustainable economic growth for countries like Guatemala.”
Leading in sustainability is important for LAATS with Juarez proudly saying that it is the first company in the region to integrate electric GSE into operations.
He says, “This move not only reduces our carbon footprint but also underscores our commitment to sustainable aviation practices. We are setting the standard for environmentally friendly ground handling in Central America, demonstrating that operational excellence and sustainability can go hand in hand.”
As the Latin American aviation market grows, there will be a growing emphasis on modernisation, sustainability and operational excellence, says Juarez.
LAATS will continue to lead the way in sustainability with electric GSE to enhance efficiency while protecting the planet.
Juarez and the team believe sustainable technologies and practices will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Latin American aviation.
Investing in sustainability, international certificates, infrastructure and workforce training will make Latin America more competitive.
Juarez says, “By investing in sustainability and innovation, Latin America cannot only meet but exceed global standards, positioning the region as a key player in the aviation industry of the future.”
This article was originally published in the March/April 2025 issue of Air Logistics International, click here to read the digital edition and click here to subscribe.