Airline flights across the eastern Caribbean were disrupted Saturday following a U.S. military operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, according to FlightRadar24.com. Major airlines canceled hundreds of flights across the region after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) imposed restrictions, impacting travel during a busy period.

Flights to and from Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Aruba, and more than a dozen other destinations in the Lesser Antilles were affected. The airlines announced they would waive change fees for passengers needing to reschedule flights this weekend.

The Queen Beatrix airport in Aruba, located 15 miles (24 kilometers) off Venezuela's coast, reported canceled flights stranded travelers or prevented them from reaching the island Saturday. Airport officials anticipated normal operations would resume on Sunday.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated in a social media post that the FAA restrictions were implemented to ensure the safety of civilian air traffic in the region following the U.S. military action. The FAA has the authority to issue Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) that restrict or close airspace in response to security concerns or military activity.

The situation highlights the interconnectedness of global events and their impact on civilian infrastructure. The sudden disruption to air travel demonstrates how geopolitical events can rapidly cascade into logistical challenges, affecting individuals and businesses far removed from the immediate conflict zone.

The use of AI in air traffic management and flight planning could potentially mitigate some of the disruptions caused by unforeseen events. AI algorithms can analyze real-time data, including airspace restrictions and weather patterns, to optimize flight routes and minimize delays. Machine learning models can also be trained to predict potential disruptions and suggest alternative solutions, such as rerouting flights or adjusting schedules.

However, the reliance on AI in critical infrastructure also raises concerns about cybersecurity and the potential for malicious actors to exploit vulnerabilities in these systems. Ensuring the resilience and security of AI-powered air traffic management systems is crucial to maintaining the safety and efficiency of air travel.

As of late Saturday, airlines were working to rebook passengers and resume normal operations. The FAA was expected to reassess the airspace restrictions in the coming days, depending on the evolving situation in Venezuela. Travelers were advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates on flight schedules.