FAA closures of Eastern Caribbean airspace after U.S. strikes on Venezuela forced American, Delta and Southwest to cancel or adjust dozens of flights. Airlines cited safety and regulatory compliance and are notifying affected passengers through apps and service channels. Southwest named Aruba, Punta Cana and San Juan among impacted destinations and is offering fee-free rebooking and potential refunds. U.S. carriers have not operated scheduled service to Venezuela since 2019.
FAA Closes Caribbean Airspace After U.S. Strikes on Venezuela — Major Airlines Cancel Dozens of Flights
Airlines cancel dozens of Caribbean flights after US strikes Venezuela
Airlines canceled dozens of flights across the Caribbean, including routes to Puerto Rico, after U.S. military strikes on Venezuela prompted the Federal Aviation Administration to close portions of Caribbean airspace.
What Happened
President Donald Trump ordered overnight strikes on Venezuela as part of an operation to apprehend Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Shortly after the strikes, the FAA issued airspace closures affecting the Eastern Caribbean, leading carriers to cancel or reroute flights for safety and regulatory compliance.
Airline Responses
American, Delta and Southwest announced cancellations and operational adjustments on Saturday morning in response to the FAA restrictions.
This map shows diverted planes moving away from Venezuela on Jan. 3, 2026. (NewsNation)
American Airlines: “American Airlines is aware of the FAA-mandated airspace closures in the Eastern Caribbean that were issued overnight and is closely monitoring the situation with the agency. We are making schedule adjustments as necessary with the safety and security of our customers and team members top of mind.”
Delta Air Lines: “Delta began cancelling flights early Saturday morning in compliance with FAA airspace closures in the Caribbean.” Delta said affected customers will receive notifications through the Fly Delta app regarding cancellations and rebookings.
Southwest Airlines identified impacted destinations including Aruba, Punta Cana (Dominican Republic) and San Juan, Puerto Rico. The carrier warned that flights may be delayed, diverted or canceled; customers can rebook without paying a change fee and some may be eligible for refunds.
Additional Context
U.S. carriers have not provided scheduled service to Venezuela since 2019. The recent FAA closures and airline cancellations are described as temporary measures tied to safety and airspace restrictions; passengers should expect evolving updates as authorities and airlines respond.
Advice for Travelers
- Check your airline’s app or website for the latest flight status and notifications.
- Contact your carrier’s customer service for rebooking or refund options if your flight was affected.
- Monitor FAA notices and official travel advisories before traveling to or through the Caribbean region.
For continuing coverage and official updates, follow airline advisories and FAA announcements.
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