The Venezuelan government Delivers Final Warning to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Face Consequences
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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a stern warning to global carriers, demanding they restart operations to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Airlines 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.
The warning came as the US government increased tensions by sending military assets to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as significant military presence.
Affected Airlines
- Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only isolate the country further," cautioned the International Air Transport Association.
Safety Issues
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, referencing deteriorating security conditions and increased military movements.
Maiquetía airport, which serves Caracas, has seen dramatically decreased global connectivity despite certain carriers continuing operations.
Aviation Reaction
Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning 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
Bilateral tensions have worsened amid increased US military presence in the region, which US officials state aims to fight narcotics trade.
Recent military actions have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since the beginning of fall.
Political Standoff
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and broader US presence, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him.
In public comments, Maduro declared that "They will not defeat Venezuela, we are invincible."
The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing controversial 2024 elections that global monitors deemed flawed.
Despite tensions, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the option for dialogue with Maduro, suggesting that "at some point, I will speak with him."
