For Spaniards with ties to Venezuela, the resumption of flights between Madrid and Caracas has become a game-changing event for thousands of families. Nearly three months of waiting, flight cancellations, and rescheduling ended with the first Air Europa departure, yet this relief brought new questions. Many passengers, especially Venezuelan citizens, openly express their unease: returning home comes without guarantees of safety, and the situation in the country remains tense.
A long wait
In November last year, Spanish airlines, including Air Europa, Plus Ultra, and Iberia, suspended flights to Caracas. The reason was a recommendation from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to avoid Venezuelan airspace. This move followed heightened tensions between Caracas and Washington, as well as a military operation that led to the detention of Nicolás Maduro and his wife. For many Spaniards and Venezuelans stranded far from home, it meant months of uncertainty and forced stay in Madrid.
Elderly passengers suffered the most from the forced delays. One of them, 84-year-old Hilda Linares, shared that the cold weather and constant flight changes worsened her health. She had to change her ticket five times, but no compensation from the airline followed. Similar stories come from other passengers: cancellations, postponements, money lost on extra tickets and accommodation.
Problems with refunds
Families planning to return to Venezuela faced a lack of flexible solutions from carriers. Carolina Verde’s parents were unable to depart on the scheduled day, and their attempts to change the date due to work failed. The only option the airline offered was to fly via Colombia at their own expense. As a result, they had to cancel important medical appointments, and the family’s plans were disrupted.
Not all passengers respond the same way. Some, like Johnny Bracho, see the delay as an opportunity to extend their vacation. Others, such as Danilo Diaz, were forced to remain in Madrid since November, waiting for a chance to return home. For many, the wait became a test of endurance, and each new departure date was met with skepticism.
Fear and hope
Despite flights resuming, concerns persist. Some passengers prefer not to disclose their names, fearing repercussions after returning to the country. They point out that political instability and fear of reprisals remain a part of everyday life in Venezuela. Many openly support US intervention and hope for change, but for now choose not to discuss the situation publicly.
In the baggage check-in line, opinions vary: some are happy for the chance to return, others worry about the future. The feeling of uncertainty lingers even for those who finally received their boarding pass. For most passengers, this flight is more than just a journey home—it’s a step into the unknown.
In recent years, Spanish airlines have repeatedly suspended flights to countries with unstable political situations. Similar incidents have occurred before with routes to Latin America and Africa, when air service was temporarily halted due to security threats or diplomatic conflicts. Flight operations are usually resumed with strict security measures and additional checks, causing passengers to face delays and schedule changes. Such events always spark widespread concern among Spaniards who have relatives or business ties abroad.
