In a recent diplomatic move, the Venezuelan government has announced the suspension of all commercial flights between Venezuela and Panama, as well as the Dominican Republic, effective July 31 at 2000L (0000Z).

This decision comes as a response to the refusal of the Panamanian and Dominican governments to recognize the result of Venezuela’s recent presidential election, where Nicolás Maduro secured another six-year term set to begin on January 10, 2025. The opposition, led by candidate Edmundo González, contests the election outcome, claiming victory.

As a consequence of the strained diplomatic relations, Venezuela has also expelled the diplomatic missions of seven Latin American countries, including Argentina, Chile, Costa Rica, Peru, Panama, the Dominican Republic, and Uruguay.

For travellers affected by the flight suspension, Copa Airlines, a major carrier operating between Panama and Venezuela, has offered various alternatives, such as refunds, travel vouchers, and flexibility with travel dates and destinations.

The embargo on commercial flights extends to general aviation aircraft with Venezuelan registrations seeking to enter Panamanian airspace. The Panamanian civil aviation authority has stated that this restriction will remain until a clear mechanism is established for processing landing permits.

Meanwhile, the Dominican Republic has not publicly addressed Venezuela’s decision regarding flight suspensions. Several airlines, including Rutaca Airlines, Laser Airlines, Avior Airlines, Venezolana, Turpial Airlines, and SKYhigh Dominicana, operate flights between Venezuela and the Dominican Republic.

Following the announcement of the flight suspension, SKYhigh Dominicana and Laser Airlines have allowed passengers to reschedule flights to Venezuela within the next year. However, other carriers have not yet made similar announcements.

In a separate incident, a Copa Airlines flight bound for Caracas was barred from entering Venezuelan airspace on July 26. This action was reportedly taken to prevent former Latin American presidents, including Mexico’s Vicente Fox, Panama’s Mireya Moscoso, Costa Rica’s Miguel Ángel Rodríguez, and Bolivia’s Jorge Quiroga, from observing the recent election.

The suspension of commercial flights between Venezuela, Panama, and the Dominican Republic reflects the escalating tensions and diplomatic rifts in the region, impacting both travelers and airlines operating in these territories.