American Airlines delivers earthquake relief supplies to Venezuela

American Airlines operated a relief flight from Miami International Airport (MIA) to Simón Bolívar International Airport (CCS) on July 2, delivering more than 9,000 pounds of essential supplies to support communities affected by the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24.

The relief flight, operated using a Boeing 737 aircraft, carried non-perishable food, water, diapers, wipes, baby formula, hygiene products and other essential items to help people affected by the disaster.

"Our hearts go out to the communities impacted by this tragic disaster in Venezuela, including our team members," said José A. Freig, Vice President of International and Inflight Dining Operations at American Airlines. "Following the earthquakes, American mobilised immediately to coordinate this vital airlift of essential supplies that will help so many families in need. We stand united with the Venezuelan community as they begin to heal, recover and rebuild."

American Airlines said its commitment to Venezuela dates back to 1987, when Caracas became the airline's first destination in South America. After a seven-year suspension, the airline resumed nonstop flights between Miami and Caracas on April 30, becoming the first carrier to reconnect the United States and Venezuela. It currently operates up to two daily flights on the route and plans to resume services to Maracaibo from July 14.

Following the closure of Simón Bolívar International Airport after the earthquakes, American suspended flights to Caracas through July 10 and said it plans to restart operations once the airport reopens for commercial services.

The airline also introduced measures to support affected passengers by capping fares on all direct flights to and from Caracas. It issued a travel alert allowing customers to rebook their flights without fees, cancel their travel or receive a refund.