Bolivia removes BoA chief Eduardo Valdivia amid US trip scandal

Eduardo Valdivia Boliviana de Aviación US trip controversy fleet renewal Embraer

On 8 July 2026 the Ministry of Public Works, Services and Housing dismissed Eduardo Valdivia as general manager of Boliviana de Aviación (BoA). The decision followed public outrage over a trip to the United States to attend World Cup matches, where Valdivia allegedly used privileged airline tickets at a price far below market rates. The Ministry said the removal was due to “recent events of public knowledge” and announced a criminal investigation for alleged misuse of influence and benefits linked to his office.

The controversy coincided with a broader effort to modernise the state carrier. Public Works Minister Mauricio Zamora visited Embraer’s plant in Brazil to advance negotiations for renewing BoA’s ageing fleet of 20 aircraft, only half of which are operational. Zamora highlighted the need to replace old jets and improve service competitiveness, noting that newer regional aircraft from Embraer would support the airline’s future growth.

The government reiterated its commitment to strengthen strategic public enterprises, restore public confidence in BoA, and ensure transparency in the management of state assets.