In a landmark event, American Airlines resumed direct commercial flights between Miami and Caracas this Thursday, marking a significant milestone in air travel relations between the United States and Venezuela. This comes after nearly seven years of interruption that forced countless passengers to detour through other countries.
The inaugural flight, AA3599, was operated by Envoy Air, a subsidiary of American Airlines, using an Embraer E175 under the American Eagle brand. Departing from Miami International Airport at 10:16 a.m., it headed to Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía, with an estimated flight time of three hours, according to EFE reports.
The departure ceremony in Miami turned into a festive affair. Passengers waved Venezuelan flags and enjoyed local treats like arepas and tequeños, while Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava was present to celebrate the occasion before takeoff.
The aircraft, adorned with a special livery commemorating the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence (1776-2026) and registered as N341MB, was given a water salute on the runway.
The U.S. Department of State highlighted the event on social media, stating, "For almost seven years, there were no direct commercial flights between the U.S. and Venezuela. With President Trump's leadership, we change that today. Miami-Caracas flights are back."
Background of the Suspension
Direct flights were halted on March 28, 2019, when American Airlines, the only major U.S. carrier operating in Venezuela, ceased its operations amid deteriorating diplomatic relations between Washington and Nicolás Maduro's government during Trump's first term.
This shift was triggered by Maduro's capture on January 3, 2026, by U.S. special forces in what was called "Operation Absolute Resolution," after which Delcy Rodríguez assumed the role of interim president.
Rapid Diplomatic Developments
The rapprochement between Washington and Caracas was swift. On January 29, Trump ordered the lifting of the air travel ban following a direct phone call with Rodríguez, who later confirmed the contact with the U.S. president.
By March 4, the Department of Transportation approved Envoy Air's routes with a waiver valid until March 4, 2028, which also covers the Miami-Maracaibo route.
On April 1, the U.S. removed Delcy Rodríguez from the OFAC sanctions list, solidifying the new diplomatic landscape.
Strategic Importance of the Route
Nat Pieper, American Airlines' Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized the strategic significance of the route: "American Airlines' Miami hub is the main gateway from the U.S. to Latin America, and our service to Venezuela is a crucial part of our history and our future."
Round-trip economy class tickets start at approximately $1,951, while business class fares exceed $5,000.
In addition, another airline is resuming Miami-Caracas direct flights. Laser Airlines, in partnership with Global Crossing Airlines, will begin its own direct flights tomorrow using an Airbus A320 with a capacity for 150 passengers, highlighting the immense demand accumulated over seven years.
American Airlines plans to introduce a second daily flight on this route starting May 21, 2026, reinforcing a connection the airline maintained uninterrupted from 1987 until its forced suspension in 2019.
FAQs on Miami-Caracas Direct Flights Resumption
Why were direct flights between Miami and Caracas suspended?
Direct flights were suspended on March 28, 2019, due to deteriorating diplomatic relations between the U.S. and the Venezuelan government under Nicolás Maduro.
What aircraft is used for the Miami-Caracas route?
The route is operated using an Embraer E175 by Envoy Air under the American Eagle brand.
When will American Airlines add a second daily flight to this route?
American Airlines plans to introduce a second daily flight on the Miami-Caracas route starting May 21, 2026.