Venezuela Delivers Final Warning to International Airlines: Restore Services 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 within 48 hours or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Carriers Suspend Services Following US Warning
Multiple international carriers halted their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator issued a warning about increased military activity in the region.
This alert followed as the US government escalated pressure by sending naval forces to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the global aviation body.
Safety Issues
The FAA advisory specifically mentioned concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, citing deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities.
Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen dramatically decreased international traffic despite certain carriers maintaining services.
Industry Response
Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, warning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests.
The association emphasized that member airlines had only temporarily suspended operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve.
Escalating Conflict
Bilateral tensions have worsened amid American naval deployments 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 early September.
Political Standoff
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, our strength is unmatched."
American officials has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, citing disputed re-election that international observers deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, suggesting that "eventually, we will talk with him."
