JetBlue announced its intent to launch nonstop service between Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Simón Bolívar International Airport (CCS) in Maiquetía, Venezuela, marking the airline’s first-ever service to Venezuela. The proposed route remains subject to receipt of government approval and completion of applicable processes to operate in Venezuela. JetBlue plans to begin service before the end of the year, with tickets expected to go on sale in the coming months.

JetBlue joins United Airlines and American Airlines in announcing service to Venezuela.

The new route will connect Caracas with JetBlue’s Fort Lauderdale “focus city,” which it calls a key gateway to the Caribbean and Latin America, where the airline offers customers an extensive network of destinations across the region.

Dave Jehn, vice president, network planning and airline partnerships, said, “Fort Lauderdale continues to serve as JetBlue’s gateway to the Caribbean and Latin America, and we believe there is meaningful opportunity to expand our presence in the region with planned service to Caracas.”

JetBlue plans to operate the Caracas route using its Airbus A320 aircraft offering fast, free, unlimited WiFi, seatback entertainment at every seat and complimentary snacks and drinks.

JetBlue continues to expand its presence in Fort Lauderdale, where the airline recently announced its largest-ever schedule from the airport, including 11 new destinations and additional flights on existing routes across the US, Latin America and the Caribbean. With nearly 130 daily departures expected this summer, Fort Lauderdale has become one of JetBlue’s largest and most important gateways, according to the airline.