The Venezuelan government Issues Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Face Consequences
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Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to global carriers, requiring they restart operations to the country in the next two days or risk losing their operating licenses.
Airlines Suspend Operations Following American Alert
Several major airlines halted their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA issued a warning about heightened security risks in the region.
The warning came as the United States escalated pressure by sending naval forces to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Iberia
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only isolate the country further," cautioned the International Air Transport Association.
Safety Issues
The FAA advisory specifically highlighted concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.
Maiquetía airport, which serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite some airlines continuing operations.
Industry Response
Aviation organizations have urged Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning 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.
Growing Tensions
US-Venezuela relations have deteriorated 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 early September.
Political Standoff
National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the military strikes and American deployment, alleging the US of seeking regime change.
In recent statements, Maduro declared that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, citing controversial 2024 elections that international observers considered irregular.
Despite tensions, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the option for dialogue with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, I will speak with him."
