CIFAL Merida
26 May 2025, Madrid, Spain – The graduation ceremony for students of the Master’s in Sustainable Air Transport Management (MATSM) took place on 9 May 2025 at the iconic Palacio de Linares, Casa América in Madrid.
The programme is offered by ITAérea, UNITAR, and its regional partner, CIFAL Merida—the International Training Centre for Authorities and Leaders based in Mérida, Mexico. As part of the CIFAL Global Network coordinated by UNITAR, the centre plays a key role in developing professionals dedicated to sustainable development, with particular emphasis on the aviation sector. Its areas of expertise include disaster preparedness, especially in relation to hurricanes, and the management of airport operations during emergencies.
The event brought together graduates from the 2024–2025 cohort, representing 32 countries across five continents, who received well-deserved recognition and enjoyed a unique and memorable experience.
CIFAL Merida
In his address, the Director of CIFAL Merida, Mr Héctor Navarrete, commended the graduates for their dedication and preparation. He emphasised that they represent a new generation of leaders who, from within the airport industry, are advancing the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. He also highlighted the essential role of specialised education in transforming the sector, particularly in sustainability, safety, and airport operations.
The ceremony was honoured by the presence of various distinguished guests and lecturers, including: Mr Luis Felipe de Oliveira, former Director General and CEO of ACI World; Mr Héctor Navarrete, Director of CIFAL Merida; Ms María José Cuenda, Managing Director of Commercial and Real Estate at Aena; Mr Enrique Maurer, class patron and Director General of ENAIRE; Mr David de Benito Astudillo, Director General of Civil Aviation; and Mr Ángel Luis Arias Serrano (virtually), Spain’s Permanent Representative to the ICAO Council—among many other notable professionals and academics from the airport industry.
Representing ITAérea Aeronautical Business School, members of the leadership team were also in attendance, including: Mr José Ignacio Escudero, Managing Director; Ms Estrella Valera, Deputy Managing Director; Mr Iván López, Academic Director; the ITAérea Madrid management team; and the Directors of International Development.
Academic Excellence Awards were also presented during the ceremony to the following students:
- Mr. Said Mohamed Mohamuud Haid
- Mr. Néstor Manuel Henríquez Pérez
- Mr. Alejandro García Romero
- Mr. Alan Richard Webb
- Ms. Karolina Dolkowska Lubinska
- Ms. Nieves Marién Padilla Díaz-Maroto
All of whom completed their studies with outstanding results.
CIFAL Merida
CIFAL Merida
CIFAL Merida