US helicopter surveys Venezuela disaster zones for aid coordination

A U.S. Marine Corps UH-1Y Venom helicopter recently conducted a technical inspection flight over disaster-affected regions in Venezuela's La Guaira state. This operation is part of the international humanitarian assistance coordination mission, with the U.S. Southern Command providing logistical support for the U.S. government's response efforts.

The flight, which took place off the central coast, is linked to the U.S. government's actions following a series of earthquakes on June 24, 2026. The helicopter, assigned to the Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 365 (Reinforced), Littoral Combat Force-24, aimed to gather field information and map damage. This data is crucial for optimizing the distribution of emergency supplies and allocating relief personnel to areas with significant residential and infrastructure collapse.

This aerial mission complements the work of engineering and logistics units on the ground. With the Maiquetía International Airport temporarily closed due to structural damage, U.S. transport aircraft and helicopters are utilizing alternative landing zones and temporary helipads. These sites facilitate the direct delivery of vital aid, including medical supplies, water purification units, and food rations.

The U.S. Southern Command's deployment also includes the Contingency Response Element (CRE), a contingent of approximately 100 aviators with expertise in airfield management, alongside personnel from the U.S. Army Aerodrome Survey Team. This group is working to repair port and transport infrastructure in La Guaira, ensuring stable channels for humanitarian aid arriving via ships and aircraft from the international cooperation network.