U.S. lifts Caribbean airspace curbs after reported U.S. operation in Venezuela

U.S. officials said Caribbean airspace curbs would expire at midnight ET, allowing airlines to resume flights; carriers and an industry analyst said it will take several days to restore normal schedules.

U.S. officials told airlines that restrictions on Caribbean airspace would expire at midnight ET. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy posted the update on X. The FAA had closed U.S. carrier access earlier because of safety concerns tied to military activity after a reported U.S. military operation in Venezuela. Major carriers canceled hundreds of flights and were preparing to restore service. Key developments: - The U.S. advised airlines the Caribbean airspace curbs would expire at midnight ET, according to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. - The FAA had closed the airspace to U.S. carriers "due to safety-of-flight risks associated with ongoing military activity," the agency said in a notice to airmen. - Major airlines canceled hundreds of flights; several carriers, including United, Delta, American and Spirit, said they planned to resume or had resumed Caribbean services. - Flight-tracking records showed commercial traffic over Venezuelan airspace appeared to stop after the reported operation. Summary: The lifting of the curbs allows airlines to resume operations, but carriers and an industry analyst said restoring normal schedules will take several days. Undetermined at this time whether further airspace restrictions may be required.