The Venezuelan government Issues Final Warning to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions
Aviation photo credit
Venezuela has delivered a stern warning to international airlines, requiring they resume flights to the country within 48 hours or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Airlines Suspend Operations Following American Alert
Several major airlines halted their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator raised concerns about heightened security risks in the region.
The warning came as the US government escalated pressure by sending naval forces to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only isolate the country further," cautioned the global aviation body.
Security Concerns
The FAA advisory specifically highlighted concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities.
MaiquetĂa airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite certain carriers maintaining services.
Aviation Reaction
Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning 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 situation stabilizes.
Escalating Conflict
Bilateral tensions have deteriorated amid American naval deployments in the region, which Washington claims aims to combat drug trafficking.
Recent military actions have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since the beginning of fall.
Political Standoff
National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and American deployment, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him.
In public comments, Maduro declared that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing controversial 2024 elections that international observers deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, suggesting that "at some point, I will speak with him."
