Aruba's aeronautical authorities issued NOTAM A0564/26, in force from October 2 through December 31, 2026, which lifts the absolute ban on general aviation flights —private and non-commercial— between Queen Beatrix International Airport and any aerodrome in Venezuela. From now on, all flights, commercial and general aviation, operating to or from Venezuela using Aruba's airspace or airport require prior approval from the island's Civil Aviation Authority. The total ban had been in place since February 2019, after the border closure with the ABC islands; in August 2026 Aruba began a gradual reopening by first allowing commercial flights under prior authorization, and this notice extends the same regime to general aviation, though full operational freedom does not yet exist. Ikiratours, Venezuela's 100% B2B DMC and inbound wholesaler, coordinates ground operations for these flows.
What it means for your agency
General aviation is the premium segment's channel: small high-value groups, aircraft owners and clients combining the Dutch Caribbean with Venezuela. Aruba moving from a total ban to prior permit changes how those itineraries are designed: they can now be planned, allowing management time for the approval. The notice window closes on December 31 unless extended, so year-end trips through this channel must be processed in advance, not at the last minute.
What to do
If you work with private aviation clients or premium groups in the Caribbean, propose the Aruba–Venezuela combination allowing time for the prior permit and validate each operation with our team before confirming. Lodging and excursions at net rates on the B2B portal, with confirmation within 24 to 48 business hours.