American Airlines Seeks Approval for Flights to Venezuela

American Airlines has formally requested approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to resume commercial flights to Venezuela, specifically targeting routes from Miami to Caracas and Maracaibo. This marks the airline's first attempt to operate flights to Venezuela since it suspended services in 2019 due to political and security concerns. The request was made through Envoy Air, American's wholly owned regional carrier, which plans to operate the flights using Embraer regional jets.

American Airlines Venezuela Flights Resume, After Seven-Year HiatusUsNews and World ReportMiami Herald

The initiative to resume flights follows a significant policy shift by the U.S. government. In January 2026, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy rescinded a 2019 order that prohibited U.S. airlines from flying to Venezuela, a decision influenced by directives from President Donald Trump. The Trump administration's approach aims to normalize economic relations with Venezuela, despite ongoing concerns regarding the country's political climate and human rights issues under the leadership of Nicolás Maduro and his administration.

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American Airlines' application includes a request for exemption authority to engage in scheduled foreign air transportation of passengers, property, and mail between Miami and the two Venezuelan cities. The airline has indicated a desire to expedite the approval process, although no specific timeline for the resumption of flights has been provided. The airline's Chief Commercial Officer, Nat Pieper, emphasized the importance of reconnecting Venezuelans with their families and fostering business opportunities between the U.S. and Venezuela.

American Airlines Venezuela Flights Resume, After Seven-Year HiatusMiami HeraldUsNews and World Report

Despite the potential benefits of resuming flights, there are concerns regarding the security assessments required for operations in Venezuela. Labor unions may also express apprehensions about the safety of crews and operational logistics, particularly in light of the country's unstable political environment. Observers have noted that while the resumption of flights could facilitate travel for business and humanitarian purposes, the complexities of the situation may pose challenges for American Airlines.

American Airlines Venezuela Flights Resume, After Seven-Year Hiatus

American Airlines stated, “We are ready to renew that incredible relationship” with Venezuela, highlighting its long history of service to the country since 1987. The airline's commitment to resuming flights reflects a broader strategy to enhance connectivity and support the Venezuelan expatriate community in the U.S.

American Airlines Venezuela Flights Resume, After Seven-Year Hiatus

As American Airlines awaits government approval, the airline plans to remain in close contact with federal authorities to ensure all necessary security measures are addressed. The company is expected to provide further updates regarding the service resumption in the coming months, as it navigates the complexities of re-entering the Venezuelan market.

American Airlines Venezuela Flights Resume, After Seven-Year Hiatus

• “Envoy will operate the initially planned service for American,” — American Airlines Application

Miami Herald

• “We have a more than 30-year history connecting Venezolanos to the U.S., and we are ready to renew that incredible relationship. By restarting service to Venezuela, American will offer customers the opportunity to reunite with families and create new business and commerce with the United States.” — Nat Pieper, Chief Commercial Officer, American Airlines

American Airlines Venezuela Flights Resume, After Seven-Year Hiatus

• “the airline remains in close contact with federal authorities, and is ready to commence flights to Venezuela, pending government approval and security assessments.” — American Airlines Statement

American Airlines Venezuela Flights Resume, After Seven-Year Hiatus