All US-registered flights to and from Anguilla have been cancelled today amid Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) restrictions over Venezuelan and Caribbean airspace.
The move follows US missile strikes in Venezuela, which prompted the FAA to issue Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) warning of “safety of flight risks associated with ongoing military activity”.
The San Juan Flight Information Region (TJZS) – which includes Anguilla and St Martin/Sint Maarten – was among four regions affected, alongside Piarco (TTZP), Maiquetia (SVZM) and Curacao (TNCF).
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The Anguilla Air and Sea Ports Authority issued a notice on behalf of Clayton J Lloyd International Airport management confirming that all US-registered flights have been cancelled.
While local carriers and non-US aircraft are not automatically affected, there is a “strong possibility” of delays or schedule changes, it added.
“Passengers affected by these cancellations or potential disruptions should consult with their airlines for updates and other travel arrangements,” the authority said.
Infrastructure Minister José Vanterpool said the government is closely monitoring the “significant disruption to regional air travel”.
“All flights involving US-registered aircrafts have been cancelled, impacting operations at the Clayton J Lloyd International Airport and the surrounding region,” he said.
The restriction, which came into effect at 6am on 3 January, is in place for 24 hours until 4 January and subject to extension, the minister added.
He said it carries significant consequences for travellers and the tourism-driven economies of the Caribbean.
Vanterpool emphasised that the government’s priority is safety, and that Anguilla respects the protocols set by the FAA and other international aviation authorities.
He said the government is working closely with airlines, airport authorities and tourism stakeholders to monitor developments and reduce the impact on travellers.
“Anguilla remains committed to working collaboratively with regional and international partners to ensure that safety measures are balanced with the need to maintain vital connectivity,” he said.
“We urge all stakeholders to prioritise timely communication and coordinated solutions during this period of disruption.”
The disruption follows reports from US president Donald Trump a Truth Social post of a “large scale strike” on Venezuela this morning.
He said that president Nicolás Maduro, 63, and his wife were captured and flown out of the country. The future of Maduro’s government remains uncertain.
