Air Travel

Major U.S. carriers serving Venezuela include American, Continental, and Delta. Venezuela's Aeropostal flies to Caracas from Miami. Most fly into Aeropuerto Internacional Simón Bolívar, located about 25 km (16 mi) from downtown Caracas in the coastal area of Maiquetía. Charters fly directly to the Caribbean island of Isla Margarita.

A number of regional airlines provide regular service throughout Venezuela. Among them are Aeropostal, Aereotuy, Avior, and Santa Bárbara. Bad weather or periodic disruptions in fuel flow can cause flight cancellations. Note that 2007 and 2008 saw several plane crashes in Venezuela. Though safety standards are said to remain stringent in this country, you should do your research before booking any flights, and never take charter flights on old planes. Allow some flexibility in your itinerary, and do not plan out-country air travel for the very end of your stay in Venezuela.

Airlines in Venezuela

Aereotuy. 0212/212–3110; 0212/212–3111; 0212/212–3112; www.tuy.com/home_eng.html.

Avior. 0212/955–3811; www.avior.com.ve/.

Santa Bárbara. 212/204–4000; www.sbairlines.com/eng/default.html.