Faa Restricts Puerto Rico Airspace
The FAA has temporarily barred most U.S.-registered commercial flights to and from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) and issued a NOTAM prohibiting U.S. aircraft from flying in Venezuelan airspace following reported military activity in Venezuela. The restriction, initially set for about 24 hours, affects U.S. carriers but not foreign or military aircraft; passengers are urged to check with airlines for updates.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a temporary restriction on U.S.-registered commercial flights to and from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in San Juan, Puerto Rico, following military activity in Venezuela, airport officials confirmed. SJU said the directive — which it described as not being associated with any situation at the airport nor directly related to Puerto Rico — will result in the suspension or temporary cancellation of most commercial flights operated by U.S. airlines.
The measure is in effect for an initial period of about 24 hours and is subject to review and possible extension by federal authorities. Foreign carriers and military aircraft are not included in the restriction under FAA authorisations. The FAA also issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) barring U.S.-registered aircraft from flying in Venezuelan airspace.
The federal action followed reports of U.S. military operations in Venezuela. SJU has said it is in constant communication with federal aviation authorities and will provide timely updates as official information becomes available. The move has had immediate regional ripple effects.
Princess Juliana International Airport in Sint Maarten said all flights involving U.S.-registered aircraft are cancelled for a minimum of 24 hours, with potential extensions. The airport noted that non-U.S.-registered aircraft are not automatically included in cancellations but warned that additional disruptions are likely, especially on services operating near Venezuelan airspace.
Regional carriers such as Winair, SXM Airways, St. Barth Commuter and Tradewind Aviation were identified as likely to scale back or cancel services. Caribbean Airlines issued a separate statement saying it was operating as normal and had no disruptions on Saturday, 3 January 2026.
Airports in neighbouring countries to Venezuela, including Colombia, Brazil and Guyana, were reported to be on heightened alert. What this means for BVI residents: travellers with connections through San Juan or on U.S.-registered carriers should expect possible cancellations or delays and should check directly with their airline before travelling to the airport.
Residents planning travel to the United States or transiting through regional hubs should contact travel agents or carriers for rebooking options and monitor official airport and airline channels. Local airports and operators in the British Virgin Islands may need to adjust schedules for passengers affected by cancelled connections.
Because the restriction is federal and temporary, BVI travellers should prepare for evolving information and follow official advisories from carriers and airport authorities rather than relying on unconfirmed reports.
Primary source: VINO