Lito Sousa, aviation influencer, dies from rare neurodegenerative disease

Lito Sousa, a prominent Brazilian aviation specialist and creator of the YouTube channel ‘Aviões e Músicas’, passed away at age 59 on October 1, 2026. He had been battling Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD), a rare and rapidly progressive neurodegenerative condition caused by abnormal prion proteins. Before his death, Sousa was the first person in Brazil to receive the experimental medication ALN-6457, authorized by Anvisa for his treatment.

Following his passing, his widow, Mila Seidl, has shared reflections on the family's struggle with the disease and the challenges of returning to a routine. In response to his legacy, a legislative idea has been submitted to the Brazilian Senate by followers, proposing that Guarulhos International Airport be renamed in his honor. Seidl expressed support for the initiative, noting that the airport was a ‘second home’ where Sousa worked for nearly three decades.

Per his final wishes, Sousa requested that his ashes be divided between Congonhas Airport, Guarulhos Airport, and a location of personal significance to his family.