UPDATE: Earthquake Grounds Flights at Venezuela’s Main Gateway

June 29, 2026

Following massive damage from two devastating earthquakes on June 24th, the U.S. Embassy in Caracas has issued a statement regarding travel in and out of the country:

“We are monitoring the situation in Venezuela closely and will keep you updated so you can make decisions about your safety,” the statement read in part. The Embassy also provided the following information on airlift.

Departing Venezuela

Commercial Flights:

Travelers experiencing flight interruptions from Simon Bolivar International Airport in Caracas (CCS) should contact their airlines for the latest information regarding rescheduled flights.
International flights from Valencia, Barquisimeto, Barcelona and Maracaibo continue.
While the Department of State cannot recommend for or against any particular airline, travelers should be aware of Copa or Avianca flight availability out of Venezuela.
Copa:
- Flights to and from Simon Bolivar International Airport near Caracas (CCS) have been temporarily suspended until at least July 2 and subject to evolving operational conditions.
- Copa Airlines has scheduled additional flights between Valencia, Venezuela, and Panama City through July 2.
Avianca:
- Avianca launched service between Bogota and Valencia.
- Avianca will operate both scheduled and additional charter flights using Airbus A320 aircraft, providing an alternative gateway for travelers wishing to depart. Passengers booked on the Caracas–Bogota route will be contacted directly with instructions on how to travel via Arturo Michelena International Airport in Valencia.

In addition to carrying passengers, Avianca said it will transport rescue workers and medical personnel in coordination with humanitarian organizations, including the Colombian Red Cross and the Colombian Civil Air Patrol, to support emergency response efforts in Venezuela.

The airline is also offering affected travelers flexible rebooking options, including complimentary date changes, alternative routing via Cucuta or Riohacha, and refunds for unused tickets on travel scheduled between June 24 and July 15, 2026.

Avianca said the temporary Bogota-Valencia service was established in coordination with Colombian and Venezuelan authorities as part of its effort to maintain connectivity while supporting humanitarian operations during the ongoing emergency.

In addition to air disruptions, Venezuela’s rail services have been temporarily cancelled.

Impact on Planners & Future Travel

For meeting and incentive planners with groups traveling to Venezuela, the closure will affect arrivals, departures and connections throughout the region. Travelers should check directly with their airline before departing for the airport and monitor carrier updates as inspections continue.

Videos from inside the terminal show ceiling damage, fallen panels and debris, though authorities have not yet released a full assessment of airport infrastructure. Even if runways remain usable, commercial flights cannot resume until passenger facilities, security systems and emergency operations are confirmed safe.

The closure comes just as Caracas had begun rebuilding international air service after years of limited connectivity. American Airlines resumed Miami-Caracas service in April, United Airlines had planned to restart Houston service in August, and several Latin American and European carriers had expanded operations in recent months.

That makes a prolonged closure more significant than a typical airport disruption. Beyond the immediate travel delays, it temporarily interrupts one of Venezuela’s key links to North America, Latin America and Europe. For planners with upcoming events or incentive programs in the region, flexibility and close coordination with airline partners will be essential until authorities announce a reopening date.