After 7 years, first US-Venezuela commercial flight lands in Caracas
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- The first direct commercial flight between the U.S. and Venezuela in seven years arrived in Caracas, ending a suspension ordered by the U.S. Homeland Security Department due to security concerns.
- This resumption follows the U.S. capture attempt of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in January and the reopening of the U.S. embassy in Caracas, signaling restored diplomatic relations.
- American Airlines operated the inaugural flight from Miami, with plans to start a second daily flight on May 21, facilitating family reunions and business opportunities.
- The flight included U.S. National Energy Dominance Council director Jarrod Agen, who is set to meet with Venezuelan officials to promote U.S. company entry into Venezuela's energy and mining sectors.
- The resumption marks the first nonstop travel between the countries since 2019, ending reliance on indirect routes through other Latin American nations amid ongoing political and migration crises.
