The Venezuelan government Delivers Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Face Consequences
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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a stern warning to international airlines, demanding they resume flights to the country within 48 hours or risk losing their operating licenses.
Carriers Suspend Services Following American Alert
Several major airlines halted their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA issued a warning about heightened security risks in the region.
This alert followed as the US government increased tensions by deploying naval forces to the Caribbean region, including what reports describe as enhanced naval deployment.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Air Europa
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the International Air Transport Association.
Security Concerns
The FAA advisory specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing deteriorating security conditions and increased military movements.
Maiquetía airport, which serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite certain carriers continuing operations.
Industry Response
Aviation organizations have urged Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, 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 conditions improve.
Escalating Conflict
US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid increased US military presence in the region, which Washington claims aims to fight narcotics trade.
Recent military actions have included numerous interventions against suspected drug vessels in Caribbean waters since the beginning of fall.
Political Standoff
National leader Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the military strikes and broader US presence, alleging the US of attempting to overthrow him.
In public comments, Maduro asserted that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing disputed re-election that international observers deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, we will talk with him."
