When do Venezuela flights resume and what changed?

Flights start coming back from February 17 after the European Union Aviation Safety Agency removed its restriction on Venezuelan airspace. The move reduces operational and insurance constraints and lets European and regional airlines restart approved routes. Expect a measured ramp-up as carriers test demand, staffing, ground handling, and turnaround times.

Which airlines are restarting service first?

Air Europa is returning to the Madrid–Caracas corridor with a phased plan. Avianca is also resuming direct links between Colombia and Venezuela. Other carriers may evaluate options as demand firms and operational checks stabilize. Early movers often focus on reliability and core banks before adding frequencies and secondary city pairs.

How could fares and availability change as routes return?

With tight initial capacity, fares often run firm, especially in premium and flexible economy. As more seats come online, price dispersion should widen and discounts appear on off-peak days. Award seats may be limited early. Watch load factors, schedule growth, and competitive entries for signals of easing prices.

What are the key risks for investors?

Policy shifts, sanctions, and payment repatriation can alter route economics quickly. Insurance terms, overflight charges, and fuel access also matter. A deterioration in security or macro conditions could compress schedules and raise costs. Monitor airline guidance on yields, punctuality, and corporate mix to assess durability of the recovery.

Global Market Insights

Venezuela Flights Resume February 17: EASA Lifts Ban, Air Europa Back

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 17, 2026

Venezuela flights resume today after the European Union Aviation Safety Agency lifted its advisory on the country’s airspace. Air Europa restarts Madrid–Caracas with a planned ramp-up, and Avianca is relaunching links from Colombia. For US investors, restored capacity can lift passenger and cargo demand, support near-term yields, and reduce schedule risk. We outline the revenue drivers, pricing signals, and policy watch items that matter as EASA Venezuela airspace normalizes and airline networks reconnect key markets.