The Venezuelan government Issues Final Warning to International Airlines: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions
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Venezuela has delivered a stern warning to global carriers, demanding they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Airlines Suspend Operations Following US Warning
Multiple international carriers halted their flights to Venezuela after the US aviation regulator issued a warning about heightened security risks in the region.
This alert followed as the US government escalated pressure by sending naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what reports describe as significant military presence.
Affected Airlines
- Spanish airlines: Air Europa
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," warned the global aviation body.
Security Concerns
The FAA advisory specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.
Maiquetía airport, which serves Caracas, has seen dramatically decreased international traffic despite some airlines maintaining services.
Aviation Reaction
Industry groups have urged Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, warning that further reduction in connectivity would harm the country.
The association emphasized that member airlines had only briefly halted operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when situation stabilizes.
Growing Tensions
Bilateral tensions have deteriorated amid American naval deployments in the region, which Washington claims aims to fight narcotics trade.
Naval operations have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since the beginning of fall.
Leadership Conflict
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and American deployment, alleging the US of attempting to overthrow him.
In public comments, Maduro declared that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing controversial 2024 elections that global monitors deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, suggesting that "eventually, I will speak with him."
