IATA World Legal Symposium to tackle liability challenges in aviation

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) will host the 2026 edition of its World Legal Symposium (WLS) from February 17-19 in Warsaw, Poland, under the theme “Liability in a Changing World.”

Hosted by LOT Polish Airlines, the event will convene leading aviation law experts, regulators, and industry professionals to address evolving liability risks, including traditional insurance exposures, environmental, social and governance (ESG) compliance, greenwashing, taxation, privacy, and the use of artificial intelligence.

Rising complexity

Airline liability is increasingly complex as divergent national regulations threaten the uniform application of international treaties, creating operational challenges for carriers navigating global routes. Leslie MacIntosh, IATA’s Corporate Secretary and Acting General Counsel, said these tensions would form a central focus of the symposium.

Key sessions will explore geopolitical exposures, consumer protection, AI and competition law, and freight forwarder liability, reflecting the rapidly changing regulatory and operational environment in aviation. Michał Fijoł, President & CEO of LOT Polish Airlines, will deliver the keynote address, highlighting the importance of strategic legal guidance in supporting safe, compliant, and efficient airline operations.

The symposium will feature speakers from top law firms, airlines, and international organizations, including Barry Alexander (Victor Rane), Michael Gill (ICAO), Brian Hedberg (FedEx), Michelle Johnson (flydubai), and Andrea Tang (FIATA). Topics will emphasize proactive risk management, legal innovation, and harmonizing global standards to protect airlines and their customers.

Industry insights

Now in its premier global position as the leading aviation law forum, WLS provides participants with insights into emerging trends, practical strategies for mitigating risk, and opportunities for networking across the airline, airport, and regulatory sectors.

“By bringing together in-house counsel, private practitioners, and government advisors, WLS 2026 ensures that the aviation legal community is better prepared to address the challenges of a dynamic, high-stakes industry,” MacIntosh said.

The symposium represents a vital opportunity for stakeholders to share expertise, debate pressing issues, and strengthen global collaborations in an era of shifting liability landscapes for aviation.

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Hannah Xuchille Egot

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