Maduro's capture in Venezuela disrupts Caribbean holiday travel, hundreds of flights canceled
Share this @internewscast.com

NEW YORK — The U.S. military’s operation early Saturday, which resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, has significantly impacted travel across the Caribbean at a peak travel time.

According to FlightRadar24.com, no flights were traversing Venezuelan airspace on Saturday. In response, major airlines have cancelled numerous flights throughout the eastern Caribbean, cautioning travelers that these disruptions might persist for several days. This follows the Federal Aviation Administration’s newly imposed airspace restrictions.

Flights destined for Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Aruba, and other nearby locations have been called off. Airlines are accommodating passengers by waiving change fees for those needing to adjust their travel plans this weekend.

The FAA previously announced a temporary airspace restriction affecting Puerto Rico’s main international airport and its surrounding areas.

San Juan’s Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport shared on the social media platform X that these restrictions are due to the “security situation related to military activity” in Venezuela.

Passengers wait at Luis Munoz Marin International Airport as all flights are cancelled following US military action in Venezuela, on January 3, 2026, in Carolina, Puerto Rico
Passengers wait at Luis Munoz Marin International Airport as all flights are cancelled following US military action in Venezuela, on January 3, 2026, in Carolina, Puerto Rico Photo by Miguel J. Rodriguez Carrillo / AFP via Getty Images

Consequently, most flights operated by U.S. airlines to and from the airport have been suspended or are at risk of cancellation.

Foreign airlines and military aircraft are not included in this restriction, the statement said. “Passengers are urged to check the status of their flight directly with their airline before heading to the airport.”

JetBlue said it canceled about 215 flights “due to airspace closures across the Caribbean related to military activity.” It also noted that flights to the Dominican Republic and Jamaica were not affected by the government’s restrictions. Customers could rebook their travel or request a refund if the flights were canceled, the company said.

United said it was adjusting its schedule to account for airspace closures in the Venezuela region. It said customers could change their travel plans in the region for free as it continued to monitor the situation and worked with U.S. aviation authorities.

Southwest said it canceled all Aruba flights for Saturday and suspended Puerto Rico flights until late afternoon, but flights to the Dominican Republic were unaffected.

American said it was waiving change fees for flights to and from about 20 island destinations, including Anguilla, Antigua, Curacao, Saint Lucia and the U.S. and British Virgin Islands.

Delta said it has issued a travel waiver for customers traveling to or from 13 impacted airports through Tuesday.

Copyright © 2026 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Trump blasts Pope Leo after pontiff's veiled jabs over Iran war, immigration

Trump Criticizes Pope Leo Following Subtle Criticisms on Iran Conflict and Immigration Policies

In a fiery outburst on Truth Social Sunday evening, former President Donald…
'I’m not a fan': Trump criticizes Pope Leo XIV amid feud over Iran war

Trump Slams Pope Leo XIV: Sparks Fly in Heated Iran War Debate

In a move that captured widespread attention, President Donald Trump lashed out…
Cobrah suffers x-rated wardrobe malfunction at Coachella

Cobrah’s Coachella Outfit Mishap Turns Heads

No Coachella experience would be complete without an unexpected onstage incident, and…
UBS accused of blocking probe into Nazi thefts from Holocaust victims

UBS Faces Allegations of Obstructing Investigation into Holocaust-Era Asset Seizures

WASHINGTON — UBS faces allegations of concealing extensive records regarding the former…
China says it will resume some ties with Taiwan after visit by opposition leader

China Restores Partial Relations with Taiwan Following Landmark Opposition Leader’s Visit

In a significant development, China announced on Sunday its decision to reinstate…
Pope Leo XIV says he does not fear President Donald Trump, citing Gospel as he pushes back in feud over Iran war

Pope Leo XIV Stands Firm Against President Trump in Iran Conflict, Citing Gospel Values

WASHINGTON — In response to President Donald Trump’s recent criticism concerning the…
Dramatic moment massive green fireball streaks across the skies in UK

Unseen Spectacle: Captivating Green Fireball Lights Up UK Skies in Stunning Display

Incredible footage captured a gigantic green fireball blazing across the UK sky…
Dem California governor candidate grades Gavin Newsom's performance

California Governor Candidate Evaluates Gavin Newsom’s Leadership Record

A contender for the California governorship on the Democratic ticket has issued…
Defiant Iran accuses US of 'piracy' in Strait of Hormuz, taunts Trump over gas prices

Iran Accuses US of ‘Piracy’ in Strait of Hormuz, Challenges Trump on Rising Gas Prices

In a bold move on Monday, Iran accused the United States of…
Bruce Blakeman vows to pardon convicted NYPD 'cooler cop' Erik Duran if elected governor

Bruce Blakeman Promises Pardon for NYPD’s Erik Duran in Governor Bid

Bruce Blakeman, a Republican candidate for governor, has pledged to pardon NYPD…
Rep. Swalwell Suspends Gubernatorial Campaign: 'Sorry for Mistakes'

Rep. Swalwell Halts Gubernatorial Bid, Issues Apology for Past Missteps

Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) has announced the suspension of his campaign for…
Bahamas cops furiously searching for Lynette Hooker as deadline looms

Urgent Manhunt: Bahamas Police Race Against Time to Find Lynette Hooker Before Deadline

Authorities in the Bahamas are intensifying their efforts to locate the remains…