Nearly 500 Flights Cancelled Following Venezuela Attack, Caribbean Airspace Closure

Hundreds of flights have been cancelled this morning after an overnight U.S. military attack in Venezuela left airspace in much of the Caribbean closed.

On January 3, the United States attacked Venezuela and captured its long-standing president, Nicolas Maduro, and his wife. According to the BBC, they have been charged with drug and weapons offenses in New York.

Shortly after the attack, the FAA issued NOTAMS, restricting flights in the airspace around Venezuela. A photo posted on LinkedIn by NBAA shows the restriction spreading as far as Aruba, Barbados, and even Puerto Rico.

According to FlightAware, more than 50% of flights to San Juan Airport (SJU) were cancelled, totaling more than 357 segments. More than 89 flights to Aruba were also cancelled on Saturday. United Airlines cited “FAA restrictions” as the cause of the cancellation on its website:

“Your flight is canceled due to an FAA airspace closure in the region impacting all airlines. Your safety is our first priority.”

While the restrictions blanketed much of the Eastern Caribbean, some destinations remained operational. JetBlue confirmed that while it had to scrap 215 flights, its service to Jamaica and the Dominican Republic remains unaffected by the current government mandates.

Industry Response

Major carriers, including American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest, and JetBlue, have moved into “crisis management mode,” shifting schedules and policies to accommodate affected passengers and staff:

• Waiving Change Fees: Passengers can rebook for later in the month without penalties.
• Monitoring FAA Guidance: American Airlines stated they are "closely monitoring" the situation with safety as the primary priority.
• Managing Staffing Shortages: Beyond the airspace itself, airlines warned that because flight crews are also stranded in restricted zones, it may take several days to "reposition" personnel even after the bans are lifted.

European carrier KLM also issued warnings for travelers heading to the "ABC Islands" (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao), suggesting the disruption is reaching far beyond U.S.-based carriers.

Risks to Aircraft Systems
 

In November, the United States government issued warnings to airlines flying over Venezuela following a “rise in military activity.” These warnings were based on reports of interference that could affect aircraft systems, including vital navigation and communication tools. U.S. carriers have not flown directly over Venezuela since 2019, when American Airlines suspended its remaining service due to civil unrest. However, the latest FAA directive marks a significant escalation, effectively turning a major tourist corridor into a restricted military zone.

"We are making schedule adjustments as necessary with the safety and security of our customers and team members top of mind," American Airlines said in a formal statement.

As the situation in Caracas continues to develop, travelers are advised to check their flight status frequently before heading to the airport.