The Venezuelan government Issues Final Warning to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Face Consequences
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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to international airlines, demanding they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or risk losing their operating licenses.
Airlines Halt Operations Following US Warning
Several major airlines halted their flights to Venezuela after the US aviation regulator raised concerns about increased military activity in the region.
The warning came as the United States escalated pressure by deploying military assets to the southern Caribbean, including what reports describe as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only isolate the country further," warned the International Air Transport Association.
Safety Issues
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, referencing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.
Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite some airlines continuing operations.
Industry Response
Aviation organizations have urged Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning that further reduction in connectivity would harm the country.
Industry representatives stressed that participating carriers had only briefly halted operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve.
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.
Leadership Conflict
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and broader US presence, alleging the US of seeking regime change.
In recent statements, 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 global monitors deemed flawed.
Despite tensions, US President Donald Trump has left open the option for dialogue with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, we will talk with him."
