Caribbean airspace restrictions lifted as airlines resume flights


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Summary

Caribbean airspace restrictions lifted

Caribbean airspace restrictions were lifted late Saturday, with U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy saying airlines were notified and would update schedules.

Major airlines issue waivers, advisories

Major airlines including Delta, American and Southwest issued or maintained advisories and waivers as they worked to restore service.

Holiday travel disrupted for millions

The disruptions hit during a peak holiday travel period, with millions of U.S. travelers heading to and from Caribbean destinations.


Full story

The airspace restriction around the Caribbean following U.S. strikes on Venezuela and the capture of its leader, Nicolás Maduro, has been lifted. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy made the announcement late Saturday night on social media.

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“Airlines are informed, and will update their schedules quickly,” Duffy said. “Please continue to work with your airline if your flight was affected by the restrictions.”

FlightAware showed flights resuming out of the affected airports. 

Delta Air Lines originally issued travel waivers for passengers flying to or from 13 affected airports, allowing changes through Jan. 6. The airline is upholding the waiver offer. 

American Airlines posted a similar advisory, while Southwest Airlines said service could be canceled Saturday and Sunday to destinations including Aruba, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. Their website continues to be vague as far as advisories.

The disruptions come during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. AAA reports that eight of the top 10 international holiday destinations for Americans are in the Caribbean. With flight restrictions expected to remain in effect through at least Sunday, it remains unclear how many travelers could be stranded across the region.

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Why this story matters

The lifting of airspace restrictions over the Caribbean affects travelers and airlines during a peak holiday period and highlights the impact of operational disruptions on international travel.

Travel disruptions

Airspace restrictions led to flight cancellations and delays, stranding travelers and requiring airlines to adjust schedules and issue travel waivers.

Airline responses

Airlines such as Delta Air Lines, American Airlines and Southwest Airlines adapted by offering waivers and issuing advisories, reflecting their efforts to manage customer impact.

Holiday travel demand

The incident occurred during one of the busiest times for travel to the Caribbean, raising challenges for travelers and emphasizing the importance of smooth air travel during holiday seasons.

SAN provides
Unbiased. Straight Facts.

Don’t just take our word for it.


Certified balanced reporting

According to media bias experts at AllSides

AllSides Certified Balanced May 2025

Transparent and credible

Awarded a perfect reliability rating from NewsGuard

100/100

Welcome back to trustworthy journalism.

Find out more

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