CARACAS, Venezuela — On Thursday, the first direct flight from the U.S. to Venezuela in seven years landed in Caracas. This historic flight marks a shift after the U.S. suspended operations due to security concerns back in 2019.
The reopening of commercial flights comes just months after a significant moment: the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro during a raid in January. Additionally, the U.S. embassy in Caracas reopened recently, signaling a thaw in diplomatic relations.
Passenger Lennart Ochoa was eager to reunite with family. “A direct flight from Miami to Caracas is priceless,” he said. His excitement reflects a broader sentiment among Venezuelans in the U.S. looking to reconnect with loved ones.
Among those flying on the inaugural flight was Jarrod Agen, head of the U.S. National Energy Dominance Council. He is set to meet with Venezuelan officials to discuss future business opportunities, especially in energy and mining, which are crucial sectors for Venezuela’s economy.
At Miami International Airport, the atmosphere was festive. American Airlines staff distributed small Venezuelan flags, enhancing the celebratory mood.
Flight AA3599, run by Envoy Air, took off around 10 a.m. EDT and arrived in Caracas after about three hours. The airline plans to add a second daily flight starting May 21, emphasizing its commitment to facilitating travel between the two nations.
Historically, U.S.-Venezuela flights ceased as political unrest escalated in Venezuela. The U.N. reported that millions have fled the country due to the crisis, highlighting the need for direct connections.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava remarked on the importance of these flights: “Parents will be able to connect with children, grandparents with grandchildren.” Miami encompasses the largest Venezuelan community in the U.S., making this new route particularly significant.
This movement could also reshape U.S. engagement in Latin America. With potential growth in business ties, there is optimism that this is just the beginning of a renewed relationship between the two countries.
For more on events in Latin America, you can follow ongoing coverage by news sources like AP News at AP News Latin America.
Source link
Donald Trump, Venezuela, Caracas, U.S.-Venezuela conflict, Venezuela government, Aerospace and defense industry, General news, Latin America, AP Top News, Central America, South America, Business, Washington news, Diplomacy, Lennart Ochoa, World news, Nicolas Maduro, Daniella Levine Cava, Jarrod Agen
