Venezuela Issues Final Warning to International Airlines: Restore Services or Risk Sanctions
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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a stern warning to international airlines, demanding they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or risk losing their flight clearances.
Carriers Halt Services Following US Warning
Multiple international carriers halted their flights to Venezuela after the US aviation regulator raised concerns about heightened security risks 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 enhanced naval deployment.
Impacted Carriers
- Spanish airlines: Plus Ultra
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only isolate the country further," cautioned the International Air Transport Association.
Safety Issues
The FAA advisory specifically highlighted concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, citing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.
Maiquetía airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite certain carriers maintaining services.
Aviation Reaction
Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further loss of air links would harm the country.
Industry representatives stressed that member airlines had only temporarily suspended operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve.
Growing Tensions
Bilateral tensions have deteriorated amid American naval deployments in the region, which Washington claims aims to fight narcotics trade.
Recent military actions have included multiple strikes against suspected drug vessels in Caribbean waters since early September.
Political Standoff
National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and American deployment, alleging the US 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 illegitimate leader, citing disputed re-election that global monitors deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, suggesting that "at some point, I will speak with him."
