American Airlines to Resume Flights to Venezuela

Flights pending government approval and security assessments after U.S. military action.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 7:15pm

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American Airlines announced plans to resume daily flights to Venezuela, the first U.S. carrier to do so in over six years. The move comes after the U.S. government lifted restrictions on flights to the country following the recent military capture of Venezuela's president. However, the resumption of flights is still pending government approval and security assessments.

Why it matters

The resumption of U.S. flights to Venezuela would improve access and travel options for American citizens, as well as facilitate business, leisure, and humanitarian travel to the region. However, safety and security concerns remain following the recent U.S. military action in the country.

The details

American Airlines, which was the largest U.S. airline operating in Venezuela before suspending service in 2019, said the planned daily flights will provide opportunities for various types of travel to the region. The resumption of flights is still subject to government approval and assessments by the Federal Aviation Administration and Transportation Security Administration. Other major U.S. airlines, such as United and Delta, have not yet indicated if they plan to resume Venezuela flights.

  • On January 16, the FAA warned airlines to exercise caution when flying over parts of South America, citing risks of potential military activities and GPS interference.
  • On January 29, U.S. President Donald Trump asked the Transportation Department to lift restrictions that currently bar U.S. flights to Venezuela.

The players

American Airlines

The largest U.S. airline that previously operated in Venezuela before suspending service in 2019.

Donald Trump

The U.S. President who asked the Transportation Department to lift restrictions on flights to Venezuela.

Delcy Rodríguez

The acting President of Venezuela, who discussed the resumption of U.S. flights to the country with President Trump.

Nicolas Maduro

The former president of Venezuela who was captured by the U.S. military in a recent operation.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

The agency that will need to conduct assessments and security reviews before flights can resume.

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What they’re saying

“American citizens will be very shortly able to go to Venezuela, and they'll be safe there.”

— Donald Trump, U.S. President

“We look forward to facilitating the return of regular travel between the U.S. and Venezuela.”

— Federal Aviation Administration

What’s next

The Federal Aviation Administration and Transportation Security Administration will need to conduct assessments and security reviews before American Airlines can resume flights to Venezuela. The Transportation Department will also need to rescind a 2019 order that barred U.S. flights to the country.

The takeaway

The resumption of U.S. flights to Venezuela, if approved, would represent a significant shift in travel and access to the country following recent military and political changes. However, safety and security concerns remain, and the process to restart flights will require thorough government reviews and approvals.