Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía resumed commercial flight operations on Tuesday using temporary tent-like terminals, set up to ensure operational continuity at the country’s primary aviation hub. The measure addresses the contingency caused by severe structural damage to the main infrastructure following a double earthquake on June 24.
The day’s flight schedule began at 8:00 a.m. with the departure of the first flight to Valera, operated by flag carrier Conviasa. Later, at 10:00 a.m., Rutaca Airlines carried out its scheduled departure to Porlamar. Likewise, the schedule included operations to strategic international routes such as Miami, Mexico, and Panama City.
At least 14 airlines will resume operations during the first weeks of September, including major international carriers such as Air Europa, Iberia, Plus Ultra, American Airlines, Copa Airlines, Avianca, LATAM, and GOL.
These temporary structures feature an installed logistical capacity to accommodate up to 780 international passengers and 480 domestic passengers simultaneously.
Logistical Guidelines Issued by IAIM for Passengers
Following the commissioning of these provisional spaces, the International Airport Institute of Maiquetía (IAIM) formalized a set of operational regulations and recommendations for passengers:
- Check-in and Arrival Times: Passengers must arrive three (3) hours prior to departure for international flights and two (2) hours for domestic flights. Travelers are urged to complete online check-in in advance with airlines offering digital services.
- Access Control and Flow: Entry to the terminals must be made through the lower level of the airport, proceeding up to the facilities via the designated ramp. Access to the operational tents is strictly restricted to ticketed passengers with confirmed bookings.
- Baggage Policy: Regulations, allowances, and weight limits for checked and carry-on baggage remain unchanged and are subject to the policies of each air carrier.
- Priority Assistance: Priority processing and special assistance are guaranteed for senior citizens and passengers with disabilities.
- Itinerary Verification: Passengers are advised to verify flight departures in advance with their respective airline or travel agency to confirm operations out of Maiquetía.
- Parking and Transit: Travelers must use the parking lot located at the upper level of the airport grounds, adjacent to the Gran Cacique Hotel. Connecting passengers traveling between domestic and international flights have access to a dedicated internal walkway.
- Additional Amenities: A VIP lounge is operational within the facility, accessible upon payment of the corresponding fee.
Operational Outlook
The launch of operations in temporary terminals marks the initial phase of operational recovery for Simón Bolívar International Airport following the June contingency. Oversight by aviation authorities and strict passenger compliance with check-in protocols will be critical to maintaining operational efficiency at the airport throughout this temporary phase.
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