Arajet still plans to launch scheduled flights to Venezuela after postponing its entry into the country more than once. The Dominican airline intends to connect its two main operating bases with Caracas, Valencia and Maracaibo.
The project began to take shape in March, when Arajet requested authorization from the Dominican Republic's Civil Aviation Board (JAC) for six routes. The application covers flights from both Santo Domingo and Punta Cana to the three Venezuelan cities.
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Arajet proposed two weekly frequencies on each route, for a total of 12 flights per week. The services would use the Boeing 737 MAX 8, the only aircraft type in the carrier's fleet.
The airline initially expected to enter the Venezuelan market in June, with Punta Cana-Caracas planned as its first route. That timetable was later postponed, and Dominican authorities subsequently pointed to September or October for the start of operations.
Earthquake delayed launch
Those plans faced another delay after an earthquake struck Venezuela in June and damaged infrastructure at Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía, the main airport serving Caracas.
Arajet confirmed in August that it remained interested in serving Venezuela but acknowledged that the damage at Maiquetía had delayed the project. Valencia or Maracaibo also emerged as possible initial destinations if conditions prevented the airline from starting with Caracas.
Arajet did fly to Venezuela in July, although the operation was a humanitarian mission rather than a scheduled passenger service. One of its 737 MAX 8s transported healthcare professionals, medical equipment and a mobile hospital to assist with the response to the earthquake.
None of the six scheduled routes requested by Arajet has started operations, and the airline has yet to announce a new firm date for its entry into the Venezuelan market.
Airlines reconsider Venezuela
Arajet's plans come as international airlines reassess opportunities in Venezuela after years of reduced connectivity. Several Latin American carriers are considering new or restored services, although airport infrastructure and regulatory issues remain obstacles to a larger recovery.
Reuters reported that airlines in the region are evaluating opportunities following an improvement in diplomatic relations and expectations of recovering passenger demand. Airport infrastructure, particularly at Maiquetía, remains one of the issues facing the market.
Arajet began operations in 2022 and operates an all-Boeing 737 MAX 8 fleet. The airline serves destinations across the Caribbean and North, Central and South America from Santo Domingo and Punta Cana.
