GOL Resumes Flights to Caracas After Nine Years, Reinforces Security Measures for Crew
After a nine-year hiatus, the Brazilian airline is resuming the non-stop route from São Paulo, implementing strict protocols for its staff during their stay in Venezuela.
GOL Linhas Aéreas is set to re-establish its direct connection between Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) in São Paulo and Simón Bolívar International Airport (CCS), serving Caracas, starting this August 5th. The resumption of the route, operated with Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, comes after a nine-year hiatus and is accompanied by strict security recommendations for its crews.
The operation was originally suspended in 2016. At that time, the government of Nicolás Maduro, who remains in power, implemented policies that resulted in the retention of airline funds from ticket sales within the country as a measure to control capital flight. The route's resumption was preceded by negotiations and announcements that considered potential stopovers, but the company ultimately confirmed the non-stop operation.
In an internal communication sent to all crew members last Friday, obtained by Aviacionline's Brazilian media partner, AEROIN, the airline underscores the security conditions in Venezuela. While the situation at the Maiquetía airport is perceived as normal, the email highlights that the country continues to experience political instability and high crime rates.
The internal memo reinforces precautions for staff, a practice that was already in place before the 2016 suspension due to violence in the capital and the risk of attacks against foreigners. The recommendation is clear, instructing personnel to "remain within the hotel premises, avoid unnecessary travel—especially unaccompanied—and exclusively use the transportation provided by GOL." The company also warned pilots and cabin crew to take extra care with their luggage and personal belongings, even inside the hotel.
Why is GOL resuming flights to Caracas?
GOL is resuming flights to Caracas to re-establish a key direct connection between Brazil and Venezuela, which was suspended for nine years. The decision responds to market demand and new operational conditions, although the airline maintains a cautious stance on security.
Flight G3 9510 is scheduled to depart from Guarulhos at 5:05 PM, landing in Caracas at 10:10 PM (local time), with a duration of 6 hours and 5 minutes. The return leg, flight number G3 9511, takes off from the Venezuelan capital at 11:40 PM and arrives in São Paulo at 6:50 AM the following day. This itinerary allows for crew layovers in Caracas, which underpins the security directives issued by the company.
GOL's return joins the services of other airlines connecting the region to Venezuela, such as Copa Airlines and the Venezuelan state-owned Conviasa. The air transport situation in the South American country remains a topic of interest for the industry, which is closely watching the evolution of political and economic conditions that directly impact the viability and safety of operations.
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