US Military Action in Venezuela Triggers Hundreds of Caribbean Flight Cancellations

A sudden U.S. military operation in Venezuela has severely disrupted commercial air travel across the Eastern Caribbean. The operation, which led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, caused immediate and widespread cancellations. Hundreds of flights were grounded during a busy holiday travel period.

Regulatory Response and Airspace Closure

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) quickly imposed emergency airspace restrictions. This action was taken to ensure the safety of the flying public. The FAA cited "safety-of-flight risks associated with ongoing military activity." This restriction primarily barred U.S.-registered civilian aircraft from operating. The affected area included the Maiquetía Flight Information Region (FIR) and surrounding Caribbean airspace. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed the restrictions on social media. He advised passengers to work directly with their airlines for updates.

Flight-tracking data confirmed that no commercial aircraft crossed over Venezuela on Saturday. The disruption impacted airports across the Lesser Antilles island group. This includes popular destinations like Puerto Rico, Aruba, and the Virgin Islands.

Major Airline and Airport Impact

Major U.S. carriers reported significant operational fallout from the FAA airspace restrictions. JetBlue canceled approximately 215 flights due to the closures. The cancellations affected service to and from numerous islands.

• American Airlines waived change fees for flights to about 20 island destinations.
• Delta Air Lines issued a travel waiver for customers at 13 impacted airports through Tuesday.
• Southwest Airlines canceled all Aruba flights and suspended Puerto Rico service.
• United Airlines adjusted its schedule and offered free changes to travel plans.

At Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in San Juan, Puerto Rico, officials reported nearly 400 arrivals and departures were affected. The airport confirmed the restrictions were due to the "security situation related to military activity." The Queen Beatrix airport in Aruba also saw a day of canceled flights. Foreign airlines, such as Air Canada, reported their operations were continuing normally.

Passenger Travel Disruption

The sudden Caribbean flight cancellations stranded many holiday travelers. Airlines quickly waived change fees to help passengers reschedule. Many travelers faced unexpected expenses and extended trips. The weekend was past the peak holiday period but still saw heavy traffic. Many Americans were trying to return home ahead of work and school. The disruptions also impacted some travelers booked for Caribbean cruises. Passengers were advised to monitor phone alerts from their carriers. The FAA restrictions were initially set to last through early Sunday. Aviation stakeholders continue to monitor the situation for updates on when restrictions will be lifted. For more commercial aviation news, visit flying.flights.

This event highlights the immediate and far-reaching impact of geopolitical instability on global air traffic management. The swift response by the FAA and major carriers like JetBlue and American Airlines focused on passenger safety and schedule flexibility. The duration of the Eastern Caribbean air travel disruption remains dependent on the military situation's resolution.