First European jet lands in Venezuela after Maduro’s US capture

Caracas: A commercial Air Europa flight from Spain has touched down in Caracas, marking the first European airline to resume services to Venezuela following the political upheaval and removal of former president Nicolás Maduro.

European aviation link restored

A Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner operated by Air Europa landed at Simón Bolívar International Airport at 9:00 pm local time (0100 GMT), marking the first European commercial arrival since the political upheaval that followed the removal of Nicolás Maduro.

International carriers had suspended services to Venezuela after the United States warned in late November of potential military action in the country. The warning preceded a surprise US operation on January 3 that led to Maduro’s capture.

Following the operation, US President Donald Trump established a working relationship with Venezuela’s interim president Delcy Rodríguez.

Last month, Trump publicly called for commercial flights to Venezuela to resume. In line with that move, the US administration lifted a 2019 ban that had prevented American airlines from operating routes to the country.

Airlines preparing to return

Spain’s Iberia is reportedly assessing security guarantees before confirming its return. Portugal’s TAP Air Portugal has said it plans to resume services. Colombian carrier Avianca and Panama’s Copa Airlines have already restarted operations.

The arrival of Air Europa’s flight signals the gradual reopening of Venezuela’s international aviation network after months of disruption.

The restoration of European air links is seen as a key step in re-establishing trade, diplomatic ties, and travel connections between Venezuela and international partners following the recent political transition. Further airline resumptions are expected in the coming weeks.
(With AFP inputs)