Venezuelan airline Rutaca Airlines is expanding its regional network with new routes connecting Venezuela to Brazil, aiming to boost tourism and trade between the two countries. The airline will launch flights between Caracas and Manaus on , and between Puerto Ordaz and Boa Vista on .
The expansion represents a more than 100% increase in Rutaca’s flight frequency, adding 56 weekly flights and bringing the total to 114 monthly flights, according to Luis Silva, the airline’s executive president. Rutaca, which has operated continuously in Venezuela for over 50 years, views the expansion as a contribution to the economic and tourism development of Ciudad Guayana and the country as a whole.
Bridging the Distance to Brazil
The new air bridge aims to eliminate lengthy overland journeys, establishing a one hour and ten minute connection between the Bolívar state in Venezuela and the state of Roraima in Brazil. The airline’s leadership describes the initiative as the culmination of years of planning, designed not only to ensure air connectivity but also to create opportunities for Venezuelans.
“It’s a pleasure to announce our opening to Brazil, as well as connecting two additional frequencies to Margarita Island, from Puerto Ordaz to Porlamar. We will also connect Ciudad Guayana with Barcelona,” stated Carlos Villegas, director of business.
The routes to Brazil will be operated by aircraft with capacities of 130 and 150 seats, with fares starting at $204. Passengers can follow the airline’s social media channels for updates on promotions.
Growth and Connectivity
Starting in the third week of March, Rutaca will add two frequencies to the Caracas – Puerto Ordaz – Caracas route, expanding its schedule. “This allows us to offer four daily flights, from Monday to Friday, to a city that requires connectivity,” said Josmar Palacios, commercial director.
Rutaca intends these routes to stimulate economic, tourism, and energy activity in Ciudad Guayana. The airline currently operates seven consolidated international routes. The company envisions Ciudad Guayana as a key connection point for Venezuela with South America, potentially extending to the rest of the continent. “New international routes are planned,” Villegas affirmed.
Rutaca’s leadership is calling on economic sectors, transportation providers, and tourism businesses to participate in this initiative to capitalize on new growth opportunities. The project is described as the result of persistent effort aimed at harnessing the region’s potential for development.
The airline is also facilitating connections for passengers traveling to Isla Margarita. Passengers arriving from Brazil will be able to connect to Isla Margarita via Caracas (from Manaos) or Puerto Ordaz (from Boa Vista).
Rutaca’s strategy focuses on establishing Ciudad Guayana as a central hub for connections between Venezuela and South America. The airline aims to leverage this position to attract further investment and expand its network of international routes. The new routes are expected to significantly reduce travel times and costs for passengers traveling between northern Brazil and Venezuela, potentially fostering increased trade and tourism.
The launch of these routes comes as Venezuela seeks to strengthen its economic ties with neighboring Brazil. The increased connectivity is expected to benefit businesses in both countries, facilitating the movement of goods and people. Rutaca’s expansion also reflects a broader trend of increased air travel in the region, driven by growing economies and a rising demand for tourism.
