The Venezuelan government Issues Ultimatum to International Airlines: Resume Flights or Face Consequences
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Venezuela has delivered a stern warning to global carriers, requiring they resume flights to the country in the next two days or risk losing their operating licenses.
Carriers Suspend Operations Following US Warning
Multiple international carriers suspended their Venezuelan operations after the American FAA issued a warning about heightened security risks in the region.
The warning came as the US government escalated pressure by deploying military assets to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment.
Affected Airlines
- Carriers from Spain: Air Europa
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only isolate the country further," warned the global aviation body.
Security Concerns
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, referencing deteriorating security conditions and increased military movements.
Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen dramatically decreased international traffic despite certain carriers maintaining services.
Industry Response
Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, cautioning that further loss of air links would harm the country.
The association emphasized that participating carriers had only briefly halted operations and remained committed to restoring services when conditions improve.
Escalating Conflict
US-Venezuela relations have deteriorated amid increased US military presence in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking.
Naval operations have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since the beginning of fall.
Leadership Conflict
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the military strikes and broader US presence, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him.
In recent statements, Maduro declared that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, we are invincible."
The United States has consistently labeled Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, referencing disputed re-election that global monitors deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the option for dialogue with Maduro, suggesting that "at some point, I will speak with him."
