Story perspectives

Trump Reopens Venezuelan Airspace; Direct Miami-Caracas Flight Launches

5/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. National Energy Dominance Council director Jarrod Agen boarded Flight AA3599 from Miami to Simon Bolivar International Airport on April 30, 2026, ending a seven-year suspension.
President Donald Trump announced January United States would reopen Venezuelan airspace.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy called the flight a milestone and said a second daily Miami-Caracas service will start May 21.
Venezuelan-American passenger Lennart Ochoa said the direct route eliminates multi-stop itineraries and tickets cost over $1,000.

History

Historical Context

After the United States suspended all commercial flights to Venezuela in May 2019 over safety concerns—amid hyperinflation-driven airline exits and a $3.8 billion unpaid debt to carriers—direct Miami-Caracas service remained halted for seven years. Secretary Sean Duffy’s 2024 announcement ends the gap, seeking to restore connectivity and revive bilateral trade and investment.

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Story summary

U.S. National Energy Dominance Council director Jarrod Agen boarded Flight AA3599 from Miami to Simon Bolivar International Airport on April 30, 2026, ending a seven-year suspension.
President Donald Trump announced January United States would reopen Venezuelan airspace.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy called the flight a milestone and said a second daily Miami-Caracas service will start May 21.
Venezuelan-American passenger Lennart Ochoa said the direct route eliminates multi-stop itineraries and tickets cost over $1,000.

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