DOT RESCINDS SUSPENSION OF FLIGHTS BETWEEN U.S. AND VENEZUELA
February 2, 2026
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On January 29, 2026, the U.S. Department of Transportation rescinded Order 2019-5-5, which had previously suspended U.S. and foreign air carriers from operating flights between the United States and Venezuela. Pursuant to Order 2026-1-24, Transportation Secretary Duffy concluded that the continued prohibition on air service to Venezuela was no longer serving the public interest and therefore DOT made the rescission effective immediately. The Order restores the ability of U.S. and foreign carriers to pursue U.S.–Venezuela service pursuant to their certificate, permit, and/or exemption authorities. However, the Order does not modify existing restrictions and/or requirements imposed by other federal agencies including the U.S. Departments of State, Treasury, Commerce, and Homeland Security, nor does it change Venezuela’s Category 2 rating under the Federal Aviation Administration’s International Aviation Safety Assessment program.
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