Madrid–Caracas Flights Return After Earthquake Disruption
Direct flights between Madrid and Caracas are returning in stages this September after June earthquakes forced Spanish airlines to move services away from Simón Bolívar International Airport. Air Europa resumed operations on 1 September, with Iberia and Plus Ultra following later in the month. The change restores direct access to Venezuela’s main international airport after flights were temporarily operated through Arturo Michelena Airport in Valencia.
When Each Airline Returns
- Air Europa: From 1 September; five weekly flights on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday; Madrid non-Schengen check-in at T1.
- Iberia: From 3 September; Monday, Thursday and Sunday; Madrid T4.
- Plus Ultra: From 8 September; Caracas flight every Tuesday; Madrid T4.
- Plus Ultra timetable: Madrid 13:00–Caracas 16:30; return 19:00–Madrid 09:55 next day.
- Until 27 September: Plus Ultra’s remaining Venezuela flights continue through Valencia.
Air Europa says customers travelling after 1 September currently need no booking changes but should monitor the email linked to their reservation. Iberia is restoring Caracas gradually and continues to offer flexibility for affected tickets, including travel-date changes through 15 October, alternative routing through Bogotá or Panama City, or refunds where applicable. Plus Ultra says additional Caracas frequencies depend on further operational approval from Venezuelan aviation authorities.
Passengers travelling with Plus Ultra in September should check the airport code on their booking before leaving for the airport. Caracas services use CCS, while some Venezuela flights will continue through Valencia, code VLN, until 27 September. The airports serve different cities, so a change affects transfers, hotels and onward travel. Check the latest flight details in your booking and on the airline’s website shortly before departure.
The reopening does not mean normal travel conditions have returned across Venezuela. The UK FCDO currently advises against all but essential travel to Caracas and most of the country, and against all travel to several regions. It also warns of crime around Maiquetía Airport and recommends arranging a trusted airport transfer or using the official taxi rank. Travelling against FCDO advice can also affect travel insurance.