The Venezuelan government Issues Final Warning to International Airlines: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions
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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 flight clearances.
Airlines Suspend Services Following US Warning
Multiple international carriers halted their Venezuelan operations after the American FAA raised concerns about increased military activity 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 enhanced naval deployment.
Affected Airlines
- Carriers from Spain: Iberia
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the International Air Transport Association.
Safety Issues
The FAA advisory specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing deteriorating security conditions and increased military movements.
Maiquetía airport, which serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite some airlines maintaining services.
Industry Response
Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, 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.
Growing Tensions
US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid increased US military presence in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking.
Recent military actions have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since early September.
Leadership Conflict
Venezuelan President 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 "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing disputed re-election that global monitors deemed flawed.
Despite tensions, US President Donald Trump has left open the option for dialogue with Maduro, suggesting that "at some point, I will speak with him."
