Airlines Prepare to Return to Maiquetía After More Than Two Months of Earthquake Closure

Venezuela's main airport is preparing to reopen after more than two months out of service, with airlines returning through temporary terminals while earthquake repairs continue.

Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía is scheduled to resume domestic and international commercial flights on Tuesday, Sept. 1. The airport closed after twin earthquakes on June 24 damaged its structures.

Air Europa, Iberia and Plus Ultra of Spain, Panama's Copa Airlines, and Colombia's Avianca and LATAM Airlines Colombia have announced their return. During the closure, airlines shifted some services to Arturo Michelena International Airport in Valencia and others to Barcelona airport.

The Maiquetía International Airport Institute advised travelers to confirm with their airline or travel agency that Maiquetía is listed as the departure airport. It asked passengers to arrive two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights, and recommended completing check-in in advance.

Temporary modular metal structures will accommodate up to 2,168 people. The facilities include areas for international departures and arrivals, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, waiting areas, vending machines, bathrooms, medical services, charging stations and ramps for passengers with reduced mobility. Buses will take passengers from the temporary terminals to the aircraft ramp, and parking will be available for short or extended stays.