US Moves to Resume Commercial Flights to Venezuela After Ban Lifted
The United States Department of Transportation has moved to lift long-standing restrictions on commercial flights to and from Venezuela, clearing the way for U.S. carriers to consider restoring service after more than six years. The decision follows a directive from President Donald Trump to reopen Venezuela’s commercial airspace, a significant shift after years of suspended aviation ties.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that “the continued suspension of air service is no longer required by the public interest,” while noting that other regulatory measures maintained by agencies such as the Departments of State, Treasury, Commerce and Homeland Security remain in place. The change does not alter Venezuela’s status under the Federal Aviation Administration’s International Aviation Safety Assessment program.
Shortly after Trump’s announcement, the Federal Aviation Administration removed four Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) affecting Venezuelan and nearby Caribbean airspace that had been issued due to elevated regional tensions. The FAA said safety remains a top priority as it works with airlines and authorities on reopening routes.
American Airlines, the last U.S. carrier to serve Venezuela before the 2019 suspension, immediately confirmed plans to resume daily service, pending government approvals and security assessments. The airline said restoring flights will reconnect families and support new business and commerce opportunities between the United States and Venezuela.
Before halting operations in 2019, American had served Venezuelan destinations for decades, with roots extending back to the 1980s. Other major U.S. carriers, including United Airlines and Delta Air Lines, have not announced formal plans to return. Federal agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration must conduct their own evaluations before flights can begin.
The policy shift comes amid broader geopolitical developments. In recent weeks, the U.S. military’s actions in Venezuela and the removal of former President Nicolás Maduro have influenced diplomatic relations, and U.S. officials have begun initial steps toward reopening the U.S. Embassy in Caracas. President Trump has reiterated that American citizens will soon be safe to travel to Venezuela.
Despite these changes, the U.S. State Department continues to advise against travel to Venezuela, citing safety and security concerns. Security alerts related to crime, civil unrest and detention risks remain in effect, underscoring that restoration of regular commercial service will require careful coordination and compliance with safety protocols.
The Department of Transportation originally ordered the suspension of all commercial and cargo flights to Venezuela in May 2019 after political instability and safety concerns made operations untenable.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com