Venezuela Delivers Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Face Consequences
Aviation photo source
The Venezuelan authorities have issued a stern warning to global carriers, demanding they resume flights to the country within 48 hours or face revocation of their flight clearances.
Carriers Suspend Operations Following American Alert
Several major airlines suspended their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA issued a warning about increased military activity in the region.
This alert followed as the United States increased tensions by deploying naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what reports describe as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Air Europa
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only isolate the country further," warned the International Air Transport Association.
Security Concerns
The FAA advisory specifically mentioned concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, citing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.
Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen dramatically decreased international traffic despite some airlines maintaining services.
Aviation Reaction
Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further reduction in connectivity would damage Venezuela's interests.
The association emphasized that member airlines had only briefly halted operations and remained committed to restoring services when conditions improve.
Escalating Conflict
US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid American naval deployments in the region, which Washington claims aims to combat drug trafficking.
Recent military actions have included multiple strikes against suspected drug vessels in Caribbean waters since the beginning of fall.
Leadership Conflict
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the military strikes and American deployment, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him.
In public comments, Maduro asserted that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing disputed re-election that international observers deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the option for dialogue with Maduro, suggesting that "at some point, we will talk with him."
