Venezuela Delivers Final Warning to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Face Consequences
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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a stern warning to global carriers, demanding they restart operations to the country in the next two days or risk losing their operating licenses.
Carriers Suspend Services 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.
The warning came as the United States escalated pressure by deploying naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: 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.
Security Concerns
American aviation warning specifically highlighted concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, citing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.
Maiquetía airport, which serves Caracas, has seen dramatically decreased global connectivity despite certain carriers maintaining services.
Aviation Reaction
Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests.
The association emphasized that member airlines had only temporarily suspended operations and remained committed to restoring services when conditions improve.
Escalating Conflict
Bilateral tensions have worsened amid American naval deployments in the region, which Washington claims aims to combat drug trafficking.
Recent military actions have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since early September.
Political Standoff
National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and broader US presence, alleging the US of seeking regime change.
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 controversial 2024 elections that international observers considered irregular.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the option for dialogue with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, I will speak with him."
