First direct US-Venezuela flight in 7 years lands in Caracas

"Operated by American Airlines subsidiary Envoy Air, the flight took off at 10.26 a.m. from Miami and landed in Venezuela's capital city some three hours later."

"At the Miami International Airport, American Airlines staff handed passengers small Venezuelan flags, and balloons in red, yellow and blue lined the door leading to the plane."

"The flight carried US National Energy Dominance Council Jarrod Agen, along with several other passengers. Agen is set to meet with Venezuelan officials and representatives from the energy and mining industries."

""I'm very excited to go and see the family, and I'm looking forward to see the country," passenger Lennart Ochoa told the Associated Press shortly before boarding."

The first direct commercial flight between the United States and Venezuela landed in Caracas after a seven-year suspension due to security risks. Operated by Envoy Air, the flight departed from Miami and arrived in Venezuela's capital three hours later. Passengers received Venezuelan flags at Miami International Airport, and the arrival was celebrated with a water salute from fire trucks. The flight included US National Energy Dominance Council member Jarrod Agen, who is meeting with Venezuelan officials to facilitate US business interests in the region. American Airlines plans to add a second flight in May.

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