Venezuela's main airport reopens partially with temporary terminal after deadly quakes

Nearly ten weeks after two powerful earthquakes devastated parts of Venezuela, Simón Bolívar International Airport has begun limited operations. Officials installed a 10,000-square-meter metal-frame terminal in the parking area, providing check-in counters, air-conditioned waiting rooms, free Wi-Fi, medical services and restrooms. The makeshift hub can handle up to 2,168 passengers each day, with buses shuttling travelers to aircraft.

Transportation Minister Francisco Garcés announced a target of restoring 25% of the airport's former capacity now, increasing to 40% within months and 60% by the end of the year or early next year, after certification by international inspectors. The first schedule features seven domestic and four international round-trip flights operated by Copa Airlines of Panama and Air Europa of Spain, with Iberia expected to add services shortly. Previously, international flights were diverted to smaller airports in Carabobo and Anzoategui, located 168 and 314 kilometers from Caracas.