Venezuela Issues Final Warning to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions
Airport image source
The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to international airlines, requiring they restart operations to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their flight clearances.
Carriers Halt Operations Following US Warning
Several major airlines suspended their Venezuelan operations after the American FAA raised concerns about heightened security risks in the region.
The warning came as the US government escalated pressure by deploying military assets to the southern Caribbean, including what reports describe as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the global aviation body.
Security Concerns
American aviation warning specifically highlighted concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing worsening safety situation and increased military movements.
Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite some airlines maintaining services.
Industry Response
Industry groups have urged Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests.
Industry representatives stressed 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 US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking.
Naval operations have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since early September.
Political Standoff
National leader Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the military strikes and American deployment, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him.
In recent statements, Maduro declared that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing controversial 2024 elections that international observers considered irregular.
Despite tensions, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, suggesting that "at some point, I will speak with him."
