The Venezuelan government Issues Final Warning to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Face Consequences
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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a stern warning to international airlines, demanding they restart operations to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Airlines Suspend Services Following American Alert
Several major airlines halted their Venezuelan operations after the American FAA raised concerns about heightened security risks in the region.
The warning came as the United States escalated pressure by deploying military assets to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment.
Affected Airlines
- Spanish airlines: Iberia
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only isolate the country further," warned the International Air Transport Association.
Safety Issues
The FAA advisory specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing worsening safety situation and increased military movements.
Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen dramatically decreased international traffic despite some airlines continuing operations.
Industry Response
Aviation organizations have urged Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, cautioning that further loss of air links would harm the country.
Industry representatives stressed that member airlines had only briefly halted operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when situation stabilizes.
Growing Tensions
US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid American naval deployments in the region, which US officials state 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 military strikes and American deployment, alleging the US of seeking regime change.
In public comments, 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 global monitors considered irregular.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, we will talk with him."
