The first direct commercial flight between the US and Venezuela in seven years takes off from Miami
The first direct commercial flight between the United States and Venezuela in nearly seven years took off this Thursday from Miami International Airport aboard an American Airlines plane and amid a celebration with Venezuelan flags and the country's typical breakfast, which included arepas and tequeños. EFE The passengers on this approximately three-hour flight to Caracas celebrated before takeoff in the presence of the mayor of Miami-Dade, Daniella Levine Cava, happy to be able to visit their homeland after years of doing so through third countries.
TL;DR
- American Airlines launched the first direct commercial flight between Miami and Caracas in nearly seven years.
- Direct flights were suspended in 2019 due to political tensions between the US and Venezuelan governments.
- Passengers expressed excitement about reconnecting with family, though some declined to be identified for security reasons.
- Despite the emotional significance, high ticket prices and visa restrictions are limiting travel.
- Round-trip tickets can cost over $2,700, though prices drop to around $1,000 for later dates.
- The U.S. Department of Transportation approved the resumption of flights in March.
- The route will operate daily with an arrival in Caracas around midday and a return to Miami in the evening.