On January 3, 2026, the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a temporary ban prohibiting U.S. commercial flights from operating within Venezuelan airspace. The decision was made due to "ongoing military activity" and "safety-of-flight risks" associated with escalating tensions and a significant U.S. military operation in the region. This operation notably included military strikes on the Venezuelan capital, Caracas, and culminated in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Reports indicated explosions and low-flying aircraft in Caracas and other areas, with sources suggesting the involvement of U.S. special forces targeting key Venezuelan military installations. The initial ban also affected Caribbean airspace, leading to hundreds of flight cancellations and significant disruptions for travelers. Major airlines, including American, Delta, United, and Spirit, were forced to cancel or reroute flights. However, the restrictions over Caribbean airspace were relatively short-lived, with the U.S. lifting them on January 4 or 5, 2026, typically within 24 to 48 hours of the initial imposition. Following the lifting of the blanket ban, the FAA issued security Notice to Air Missions (NOTAMs) advising caution to operators flying in Venezuelan, Curaçao, Piarco, and Puerto Rico airspaces, rather than an outright prohibition. The swift military action and subsequent capture of a sitting head of state mark a critical geopolitical event with broad international implications.