Reconstruction of the Simón Bolívar International Airport: A key process for Venezuela’s air connectivity
The Minister of Transport of Venezuela, Francisco Garcés, has shared details regarding the ambitious recovery plan for the Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía. Following the severe structural damage caused by the earthquakes on June 24th, authorities are working with the goal of rehabilitating the main facilities during the first half of 2027.
Current status and infrastructure recovery
Although the central facilities will remain disabled for the remainder of the year due to the magnitude of the damage, the Venezuelan government has confirmed significant progress in critical areas. The airport runway, located in La Guaira, suffered severe damage due to the seismic fault; however, Garcés confirmed that this infrastructure has already been fully restored and is operational.
The goal is for a portion of the Maiquetía Airport to be available again during the first six months of 2027, taking advantage of the restoration works to improve the connectivity conditions that existed prior to the natural disaster.
Francisco Garcés, Minister of TransportTemporary operations and international connectivity
Since September 1st, the airport resumed its activities through provisional terminals. These spaces have been fundamental to restoring 49% of domestic flights and 46% of international flights recorded before the earthquake. The official roadmap contemplates exceeding 60% operability before the end of the year, diverting the remaining flow to alternative airports.
Operating airlines
Currently, 19 airlines maintain their operations through the temporary terminals, demonstrating continued interest in the Venezuelan market. Among the companies that maintain their presence, the following stand out:
- Air Europa
- Iberia
- Plus Ultra
- TAP
- American Airlines
- Copa Airlines
- Avianca
- LATAM Colombia
The provisional terminals have an installed capacity for 2,168 passengers, divided between the international departures and arrivals areas, which allows for a constant flow of travelers to be maintained while the definitive reconstruction of the nation’s main air hub progresses.
