The Venezuelan government Issues Final Warning to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Risk Sanctions
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Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to global carriers, requiring they resume flights to the country within 48 hours or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Airlines Halt Operations Following American Alert
Several major airlines suspended their Venezuelan operations after the American FAA raised concerns about heightened security risks in the region.
The warning came as the US government escalated pressure by sending naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what reports describe as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Spanish airlines: Iberia
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the global aviation body.
Safety Issues
American aviation warning specifically highlighted concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, citing deteriorating security conditions and increased military movements.
Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen dramatically decreased global connectivity despite some airlines continuing operations.
Aviation Reaction
Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, cautioning that further reduction in connectivity would damage Venezuela's interests.
Industry representatives stressed that participating carriers had only briefly halted operations and remained committed to restoring services when conditions improve.
Growing Tensions
US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid increased US military presence in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking.
Naval operations have included numerous interventions against suspected drug vessels in regional seas since the beginning of fall.
Leadership Conflict
National leader Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the military strikes and American deployment, alleging the US of seeking regime change.
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 considered irregular.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, suggesting that "at some point, we will talk with him."
