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Everything You Need to Know About Valencia Airport’s New Fee (SEFOP) and Its Future Integration into Airline Tickets
Due to the sustained increase in flight operations at Arturo Michelena International Airport in Valencia (VLN)—which is currently absorbing central Venezuela's passenger traffic—the Autonomous Institute of Airports of Carabobo State (IAAEC) has implemented the Specialized Operational Facilitation Service for Passengers (SEFOP).
This mandatory airport tax is dedicated exclusively to the maintenance, modernization, and operational enhancement of the terminal's infrastructure to handle current passenger volumes.
Current Rates and Payment Calculation
The fee is set in Euros, but payment must be made in local currency (Bolívares) calculated at the official Central Bank of Venezuela (BCV) exchange rate on the date of travel:
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Domestic Flights: €5 (or local currency equivalent at the BCV rate).
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International Flights: €25 (or local currency equivalent at the BCV rate).
Who is exempt from the fee? Children under 2 years of age and passengers in direct transit or connecting flights who do not leave the airport's secure area are fully exempt.
Crucial Update: Future Direct Inclusion in Flight Tickets
A key detail for all travelers to note is that the airline industry is currently in a transition phase.
While passengers holding older tickets may currently need to pay the fee at airport counters prior to check-in, airlines are actively integrating this tax directly into their ticketing systems. In the coming months, all newly issued tickets will include the SEFOP fee automatically in the final tax breakdown, eliminating the need for counter payments at the airport.
🧳 Optional Comfort Upgrade: Michelena VIP Lounge
For passengers seeking to skip regular lines and enjoy an exclusive space while awaiting their flight at Arturo Michelena Airport, Vuelitos offers optional bookings for the Michelena VIP Lounge at $100 per person. This optional service includes priority check-in and immigration escorting, lounge access with Wi-Fi, a la carte dining, and beverages. (Check availability with your advisor).
📊 TECHNICAL BREAKDOWN: VALENCIA AIRPORT FEE (SEFOP)
| Flight Type | Base Fee | Payment Currency | Exemptions | Ticket Status |
| Domestic | €5 | Bolívares (BCV Rate) | Children under 2 & transit passengers | Currently being integrated into final ticket prices |
| International | €25 | Bolívares (BCV Rate) | Children under 2 & transit passengers | Currently being integrated into final ticket prices |
⭐ VUELITOS SUPER TIPS: Steps for Departing from Valencia
Check Your E-Ticket Tax Breakdown: Before heading to the airport, verify with your Vuelitos advisor whether the SEFOP fee is already included in your ticket. Newly issued tickets likely have it built-in.
Payment Methods at Counter (If Not Included): If your ticket does not include the fee, you will need to pay it at the airport counters. Ensure you have a debit/credit card or local electronic payment method ready to pay in Bolívares at the BCV rate.
Arrive with Adequate Time: Verifying or paying the fee at the counter can add a few extra minutes to the check-in process. Plan to arrive 5 hours prior for international flights and 3 hours prior for domestic flights.
