In a significant diplomatic development, U.S. President Donald Trump has directed the immediate reopening of Venezuelan airspace to commercial aviation, marking a pivotal step in normalizing relations following last month’s military intervention. The announcement came during a cabinet meeting on Thursday, January 29, 2026, where Trump revealed he had personally communicated with interim Venezuelan President Delcy Rodriguez regarding the policy shift.
The presidential directive specifically tasked Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and military authorities with implementing the airspace reopening by the end of the business day. This decision effectively reverses the aviation restrictions imposed during the military operation that resulted in the capture of former leader Nicolas Maduro approximately four weeks ago.
In response to the policy change, American Airlines has announced preparations to reinstate daily flight services to Venezuela, pending final authorization from U.S. regulatory bodies and comprehensive security evaluations. The airline’s statement emphasized that resumption of service would be contingent upon meeting all safety protocols and government approval requirements.
The airspace reopening represents the latest development in the ongoing political transition in Venezuela, where the United States has recognized the interim government following the removal of Maduro’s administration. Aviation industry analysts note that restoring commercial air travel is crucial for reestablishing economic and diplomatic connections between the two nations.