US–Venezuela Flights Resume After Nearly Seven Years

Commercial air travel between the United States and Venezuela resumed today after nearly seven years. This marks a significant step in the gradual restoration of diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries.

American Airlines operated the inaugural flight, which departed Miami and arrived in Caracas. The service, which will run daily, is the first by a U.S. carrier since flights were suspended in 2019 under a government-imposed ban. Officials say the flight lasted just under three and a half hours and is scheduled to return to Miami later the same day.

At Miami International Airport, the relaunch was met with visible excitement, as passengers—including journalists and government officials—boarded the flight. Roughly two-thirds of seats were filled.

The return of air service follows a decision by the U.S. government to lift restrictions earlier this month, after authorities determined that conditions in Venezuela no longer posed a threat to passenger and crew safety.

The United States has also begun easing sanctions, allowing for increased economic activity and renewed connections with international markets.

Despite these developments, uncertainty remains over Venezuela’s political future. The government has not committed to a timeline for new elections, while opposition figures, including María Corina Machado, have signaled readiness to contest any vote.