Trump Shuts Down Airspace
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed Saturday that the Federal Aviation Administration has imposed temporary airspace restrictions over parts of the Caribbean and near Venezuela following U.S. military operations in the region.
The move came after Donald Trump announced early Saturday that U.S. forces had captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro following targeted strikes in Caracas. Federal aviation officials cited heightened safety concerns for civilian aircraft due to ongoing military activity.
FAA Cites Flight Safety Risks
According to the Department of Transportation, the FAA acted after a joint security review with the Department of War identified elevated risks to commercial aviation. Officials determined that restricting certain airspace was necessary to protect passengers, flight crews, and aircraft.
The restrictions affect key flight corridors used by U.S. and international airlines traveling through Caribbean airspace or operating near Venezuelan territory.
Duffy emphasized that the decision was based strictly on safety considerations.
“The safety of the flying public comes first — always,” Duffy said in a statement posted on X. “When intelligence and operational conditions require caution, we act to protect lives.”
Airlines Forced to Reroute Flights
The FAA issued multiple Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) outlining the restricted zones and instructing airlines to adjust routes. While officials did not release operational specifics for security reasons, they confirmed the measures are targeted, temporary, and under continuous review.
Airlines have already begun rerouting flights to avoid the affected airspace. Passengers traveling to Central America, South America, or the Caribbean may experience longer flight times or temporary delays.
Travelers are advised to monitor airline notifications closely and confirm flight status before heading to the airport.
Flight Cancellations Mount Across the Caribbean
Major U.S. carriers including American Airlines and Delta Air Lines began canceling flights overnight to comply with the FAA directive. The order restricts U.S. aircraft from operating within the Maiquetía Flight Information Region, which covers Venezuela and its surrounding waters.
Meanwhile, Queen Beatrix International Airport announced that most commercial flight operations were suspended until further notice. Airlines affected include American, Delta, Southwest, and United.
The closures have left thousands of travelers stranded as airports across the region are unable to receive commercial flights while the restrictions remain in effect. Destinations impacted include Aruba, Curaçao, and Puerto Rico.
Restrictions Temporary, Officials Say
Duffy stressed that the FAA does not intend for the restrictions to last longer than necessary.
“These measures are not permanent,” he said. “They will be lifted as soon as conditions allow and passenger safety can be assured.”
Federal officials say airspace access will continue to be evaluated as regional security conditions evolve, with safety remaining the top priority.
