The Venezuelan government Issues Final Warning to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions
Airport photo credit
Venezuela has delivered a stern warning to global carriers, demanding they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or risk losing their flight clearances.
Carriers Suspend Services Following American Alert
Multiple international carriers suspended their Venezuelan operations after the American FAA issued a warning about heightened security risks in the region.
This alert followed as the United States increased tensions by sending naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment.
Impacted Carriers
- Spanish airlines: Iberia
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the global aviation body.
Safety Issues
The FAA advisory specifically highlighted concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing worsening safety situation and increased military movements.
Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite some airlines maintaining services.
Industry Response
Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, warning that further reduction in connectivity would harm the country.
The association emphasized that participating carriers had only temporarily suspended operations and remained committed to restoring services when conditions improve.
Growing Tensions
US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid increased US military presence in the region, which Washington claims aims to fight narcotics trade.
Naval operations have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since the beginning of fall.
Political Standoff
National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the military strikes and American deployment, alleging the US of seeking regime change.
In recent statements, Maduro declared that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, we are invincible."
American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, citing controversial 2024 elections that global monitors considered irregular.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the option for dialogue with Maduro, suggesting that "at some point, we will talk with him."
