Rutaca Airlines Defies US Warning, Restores Critical Venezuela-Panama Flight Link.

Venezuelan carrier Rutaca Airlines officially resumed commercial service between Barquisimeto and Panama City on Sunday. This move aims to preserve Venezuelan international connectivity amid escalating regional tensions. The reactivation follows weeks of significant uncertainty for the Venezuelan aviation sector.

On November 29, US President Donald Trump publicly urged international pilots and airlines to treat Venezuelan airspace as “closed.” This led to the suspension of several major international companies. The inaugural flights operated at high capacity, signaling strong demand despite the geopolitical climate. Rutaca Airlines's outbound flight carried 110 passengers. The return leg had 103 passengers onboard.

Barquisimeto's General Juan Jacinto Lara International Airport Director Carlos López confirmed the high passenger numbers. López emphasized the terminal remains in “optimal operating condition”. Maintaining this connection is vital for family reunions during the holiday season. It also stimulates regional trade and tourism.

The FAA Advisory and Mass Suspensions

The resumption of the Rutaca Airlines Barquisimeto Panama route comes after a critical security warning. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an emergency advisory (NOTAM A0012/25). This advisory cited a “potentially hazardous situation” for civil aviation. The FAA noted a “worsening security situation and heightened military activity”.

The advisory warned of risks at all altitudes within the Maiquetia Flight Information Region (SVZM FIR). Specific threats include advanced air-defense systems and persistent Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) interference. This has made insurance for international carriers flying into Caracas prohibitively expensive.

In response to the US airspace closure warning, at least seven major international airlines suspended services. Carriers like Iberia, TAP Air Portugal, LATAM, and Avianca halted operations. The Venezuelan civil aviation authority then revoked permits for eight major international airlines. This was after they failed to meet a 48-hour deadline to resume flights. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) criticized the government's ultimatum. IATA warned this would further reduce connectivity.

The Panama "Connection Platform" Strategy

The reopening of the Panama route is a strategic workaround by Venezuelan aviation authorities. The US maintains a heavy military presence in the Caribbean Sea. Domestic airlines are forced to adapt to threats of a “total closure” of airspace.

Industry analysts note that Venezuelan carriers are using Panama as a primary “connection platform”. This allows passengers to bypass direct restrictions. It maintains mobility to other global destinations. Both Rutaca Airlines and flag carrier Conviasa keep serving Panama City. Other remaining international routes include:

• Port of Spain, Santo Domingo, and Curaçao (via Caribbean Airlines and Sky High).
• Santa Cruz (Bolivia) and Bogotá (on a limited basis via Conviasa and Estelar).
• Istanbul (via Turkish Airlines, though services are reportedly on and off).

Humanitarian and Economic Impact

While the political backdrop is defined by threats of a “blockade,” the atmosphere at the Barquisimeto terminal was emotional. Passengers described the flight as a crucial lifeline for families separated by the crisis.

However, the sudden loss of international air links has created a humanitarian challenge. Thousands of travelers between Caracas and Europe remain stranded. This is due to the sudden revocation of licenses.

• The loss of air links is a blow to the country's tourism recovery.
• It also affects families separated by migration.

For the remaining “lifeline” routes, the economic impact is clear. International flight ticket prices surge has been reported. Average December fares for regional trips reportedly reached over US$750. The situation underscores the fragility of commercial aviation news in a highly volatile geopolitical environment text.

This highlights the challenges for airlines operating under the shadow of international sanctions and military advisories. The Venezuelan international connectivity relies heavily on these few remaining routes.