Air TransportAmerican Airlines announced plans to resume nonstop service between the United States and Venezuela, becoming the first U.S. carrier to signal a return to the market since commercial flights were suspended in 2019. The airline said the restart remains subject to U.S. government authorization and a series of security assessments.
The carrier intends to operate daily flights once approvals are granted, reconnecting the two countries after years of disrupted air links. American stated it is working closely with federal authorities, regulatory agencies, union partners and internal operational teams to meet all requirements ahead of a potential resumption.
American has operated in Venezuela since 1987 and, prior to suspending service nearly seven years ago, was the largest U.S. airline serving the country. The airline said restoring flights would support business, leisure and humanitarian travel, while allowing families separated by the suspension of air services to reconnect.
The planned return follows recent developments that have altered the political and security landscape surrounding Venezuela. Earlier this year, the United States launched a military operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, triggering uncertainty over the country’s political future but also opening discussions around a potential normalization of relations between Washington and Caracas.
Despite those developments, American emphasized that its decision is contingent on government approval and security conditions, with no firm start date announced. The airline said additional details regarding routes, schedules and operational plans will be disclosed in the coming months as the approval process advances.