Ionatan Galeano stands as a transformative figure in Latin America’s technology and aviation sectors, celebrated for his innovative approach to private aviation and strategic leadership in cybersecurity. As the Co-Founder and CEO of FLAPZ and Head of Global Partnerships at Teramind, Galeano exemplifies a rare combination of entrepreneurial vision, operational excellence, and commitment to empowering teams. His journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and forward-thinking leadership.
“The way we move is changing. Technology has delivered the opportunity to completely improve how transportation infrastructure is embedded in our cities, and this is fascinating.”
– Ionatan Galeano
Pioneering Private Aviation in Latin America
Under Galeano’s leadership, FLAPZ has emerged as Latin America’s fastest-growing private aviation marketplace. The platform bridges the gap between passengers and certified aviation operators, offering a seamless digital experience for booking flights on more than 350 aircraft, including helicopters and business jets. By leveraging underutilized aircraft across the region, FLAPZ addresses the growing demand for private travel while transforming an industry long dominated by traditional methods.
The company’s proprietary technology enables near-live bookings, allowing users to search, compare, and book flights quickly and safely. FLAPZ also offers access to empty legs and curated Getaways, making private aviation not only more efficient but also increasingly accessible. Galeano’s vision to modernize private aviation stems from the belief that the industry needed a comprehensive, technology-driven solution that improved the overall travel experience in Latin America.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Galeano often references lessons from the Jewish Talmud, which emphasizes learning from every experience. Founding a startup in the aviation industry posed unique challenges: limited budgets, scarce manpower, and minimal references for success. Nevertheless, he approached obstacles as opportunities for growth, learning, and collaboration.
Delegating responsibilities effectively and managing internal teams while meeting stakeholder expectations were critical to navigating early-stage challenges. Galeano emphasizes, “Make mistakes but also make sure that you don’t fall for them twice; that will definitely make you stronger and increase the chances of success.” This mindset has been central to the growth and resilience of FLAPZ.
Redefining Digital Aviation Services
FLAPZ’s commitment to digital transformation has redefined private aviation in Latin America. Most operators in the region lack automated internal processes, making FLAPZ’s platform both innovative and necessary. By integrating technology at the core of its strategy, the company enables operators and clients to engage with aviation services effortlessly.
The platform’s disruptive technology ensures safe, efficient, and rapid booking experiences. It aligns with emerging trends where millennials and corporate clients demand transparency, convenience, and reliability. FLAPZ continues to push the boundaries of innovation, including sustainability initiatives and eco-friendly flight options, reflecting Galeano’s belief in action-driven leadership. He notes, “Innovation is a constant state, open for any process and improvement.”
Strategic Leadership in Cybersecurity
Galeano’s expertise extends beyond aviation into the realm of cybersecurity as Head of Global Partnerships at Teramind. Teramind provides solutions for employee monitoring, insider threat detection, and workforce productivity optimization. Galeano has been pivotal in strengthening Teramind’s global presence, particularly in emerging markets like India, where adoption is rapidly growing in the banking, financial services, and IT sectors.
By building strategic partnerships and addressing cybersecurity challenges in hybrid work environments, he demonstrates versatility and foresight in navigating complex, technology-driven markets. His work ensures organizations can safeguard sensitive data while leveraging analytics to drive operational efficiency.
Leadership Philosophy and Core Values
Galeano’s leadership philosophy emphasizes empowerment, engagement, and fulfillment. Drawing inspiration from the Talmud’s definition of wealth, he believes, “He who rejoices in his portion” defines true success. For him, achievements are meaningful when they align with personal satisfaction and professional purpose.
He prioritizes creating an environment where employees can thrive, innovate, and contribute fully. Engagement, respect, and motivation are core pillars of his approach, ensuring teams feel valued and empowered to meet ambitious goals. Galeano’s commitment to continuous learning and open dialogue fosters collaboration across every level of the organization.
“Make mistakes but also make sure that you don’t fall for them twice; that will definitely make you stronger and increase the chances of success.”
– Ionatan Galeano
Vision for the Future
Galeano envisions FLAPZ as the most transparent and comprehensive marketplace for private aviation in Latin America. He aims to integrate more operators, enhance user experience, and educate end-users both individual and corporate on private aviation trends.
In cybersecurity, he remains focused on leveraging AI and machine learning to improve monitoring, analytics, and security solutions. Galeano believes that sustainable growth is achieved through purpose-led actions, careful planning, and maintaining a balance between professional and personal life. “Change doesn’t happen overnight, although the sum of purpose-led actions will increase your chances of achieving your vision,” he emphasizes.
Balancing Personal and Professional Life
Motivation, according to Galeano, is deeply tied to family and personal fulfillment. He believes that caring for and listening to his team’s needs strengthens organizational performance. This balance between personal well-being and professional dedication has helped him lead both FLAPZ and Teramind successfully, creating cultures that prioritize humanity alongside performance.