Caracas Airport Reopens for Cargo Flights After Earthquake-Induced Closure
Cargo operations at Caracas' Simón Bolivar International Airport have resumed following a complete closure due to severe earthquakes on June 24, 2026. The airport, a major hub in Venezuela, was significantly damaged by the 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude quakes, which affected Colombia, Venezuela, and the Caribbean. The damage led to the suspension of all flight operations as a safety precaution. The Maiquetía International Airport Institute (IAIM) issued a circular on July 31, 2026, confirming the restart of cargo flights, allowing airlines, customs agencies, and freight forwarders to reactivate their operations. The decision to prioritize cargo flights over passenger services was made because cargo operations require only the runway and cargo infrastructure, whereas passenger services need fully functional terminal facilities. Passenger flights are scheduled to resume on August 24, 2026, with a temporary terminal under construction. 
