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The United States has lifted restrictions on commercial air travel over Venezuela, a significant development following the recent overthrow of Nicolás Maduro. In a cabinet meeting on 29 January 2026, President Donald Trump announced that American citizens would soon be able to travel safely to Venezuela, marking a pivotal moment in the evolving relationship between Washington and Caracas.
A New Era for Venezuelan Air Travel
During the meeting, Trump disclosed that he had spoken with Delcy Rodríguez, the acting president of Venezuela and former vice-president, to inform her of the decision to allow direct flights from the US. “We’re going to be opening up all commercial airspace over Venezuela,” Trump stated, emphasising the improved security situation in the country under Rodríguez’s leadership, which he described as being “under very strong control.”
The move comes after a prolonged hiatus in air travel, which had been suspended since May 2019 due to safety concerns. At that time, the US Department of Transportation deemed conditions in Venezuela as posing unacceptable risks for American airlines, crews, and passengers. In November 2025, Trump had declared the airspace above Venezuela to be entirely closed, citing heightened military activity.
Oil Companies Eye Opportunities
The reopening of Venezuelan airspace is not just a boon for tourism; it also opens the floodgates for US oil companies eager to tap into the country’s rich oil reserves. Trump revealed that several major American oil firms are already present in Venezuela, conducting site evaluations to identify potential operational sites. “We have the major oil companies going to Venezuela now, scouting it out and picking their locations,” he remarked, indicating that this could lead to substantial economic benefits for both nations.
Despite her past as one of Maduro’s closest aides, Rodríguez has displayed a willingness to engage with the US, aiming to reset diplomatic relations. She has been actively pursuing legislation that aligns the Venezuelan oil sector more closely with American interests, showcasing a significant shift in the country’s governance.
Tensions Remain, But Diplomacy Flourishes
While Rodríguez has occasionally voiced resistance to US directives, her administration appears committed to fostering a cooperative atmosphere. She recently assured oil workers that she had “enough” of Washington’s orders but has simultaneously acknowledged progress in diplomatic communications. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described recent interactions with Venezuela’s leaders as “very respectful and productive,” suggesting a mutual interest in collaboration.
Moreover, Rodríguez announced that the US has agreed to unfreeze Venezuela’s foreign-held sovereign assets, which are earmarked for crucial healthcare and energy procurement. This move is likely to enhance the country’s ability to stabilise its economy, which has suffered immensely due to years of mismanagement and sanctions.
American Airlines, the last US carrier to operate flights to Venezuela before the suspension, has announced plans to resume direct services in the coming months, further signalling a thaw in relations.
Why it Matters
The reopening of airspace over Venezuela signifies a noteworthy shift in US foreign policy, reflecting a broader strategy of engagement with nations previously viewed as adversaries. For Venezuela, this development could herald an economic revival, particularly in the oil sector, which has long been hampered by infrastructural decay. As both nations navigate this new chapter, the potential for increased trade and cooperation looms large, highlighting the complexities of international relations in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
