Venezuela Delivers Final Warning to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions
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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a stern warning to international airlines, requiring they resume flights to the country in the next two days or risk losing their operating licenses.
Carriers Suspend Operations Following US Warning
Multiple international carriers halted their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA raised concerns about heightened security risks in the region.
This alert followed as the US government increased tensions by sending naval forces to the Caribbean region, including what reports describe as enhanced naval deployment.
Affected Airlines
- Spanish airlines: Plus Ultra
- Brazilian carrier: 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," warned the global aviation body.
Security Concerns
The FAA advisory specifically mentioned concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, citing deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities.
Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen dramatically decreased global connectivity despite some airlines maintaining services.
Industry Response
Aviation organizations have urged Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, warning that further reduction in connectivity would damage Venezuela's interests.
The association emphasized that participating carriers had only temporarily suspended operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when situation stabilizes.
Escalating Conflict
US-Venezuela relations have deteriorated amid increased US military presence in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking.
Naval operations have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since early September.
Leadership Conflict
National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and American deployment, accusing Washington of seeking regime change.
In public comments, Maduro asserted that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing controversial 2024 elections that international observers considered irregular.
Despite tensions, American leader Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, I will speak with him."
