01/03/2026
********************FLIGHT ALERT******************
As of today, January 3, 2026, there is a significant "air stoppage" affecting much of the Caribbean and parts of the southern United States (including Miami) due to a major geopolitical and military event in Venezuela.
Why is air travel stopped?
The FAA has issued an emergency order restricting or banning commercial flights in several Caribbean "Flight Information Regions" (FIRs). This is a direct response to:
• U.S. Military Operations: A series of airstrikes and a military operation in Venezuela that occurred early this morning.
• Safety Concerns: Reports of military activity, GPS jamming, and general airspace instability have made commercial flight routes through the southern Caribbean unsafe.
• Capture of Nicolás Maduro: Official reports indicate the capture of the Venezuelan leader, which has led to extreme regional tension and immediate airspace closures.
Which areas are most affected?
The impact is widespread, but some regions are seeing a total halt of U.S. carrier operations:
• Puerto Rico (SJU): Most commercial flights to and from San Juan are currently suspended or experiencing major cancellations.
• Dutch Caribbean: Flights to Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten have been heavily canceled by major carriers like American Airlines, JetBlue, and KLM.
• Miami (MIA): Operations have been temporarily suspended or restricted, affecting thousands of passengers connecting to the Caribbean.
• Eastern Caribbean: Airports in Barbados, Saint Lucia, Grenada, and Trinidad are reporting severe disruptions and cancellations for U.S.-based airlines.
Important Note: Flights to the Dominican Republic and Jamaica are currently reported as unaffected by these specific government restrictions, though knock-on delays are likely.
What should you do?
If you are currently traveling or planning to head to a cruise port today:
1. Do not go to the airport without confirming your flight status on your airline's mobile app or website.
2. Check for Travel Waivers: Almost all major airlines (American, JetBlue, Delta, United) have issued fee waivers allowing you to rebook or refund your travel.
3. Contact your Cruise Line: If you are missing a ship due to this stoppage, contact the cruise line immediately. Many lines (like Virgin Voyages) have already issued statements offering "Future Voyage Credits" for those unable to embark due to this military situation.
