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 global carriers, requiring they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or risk losing their operating licenses.
Airlines Suspend Services Following US Warning
Several major airlines halted their Venezuelan operations after the American FAA raised concerns about heightened security risks in the region.
The warning came as the United States increased tensions by sending naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what reports describe as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Spanish airlines: Air Europa
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: 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 mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities.
Maiquetía airport, which serves Caracas, has seen dramatically decreased global connectivity despite some airlines maintaining services.
Aviation Reaction
Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, 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.
Growing Tensions
Bilateral tensions have deteriorated amid increased US military presence in the region, which Washington claims aims to fight narcotics trade.
Naval operations have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since early September.
Leadership Conflict
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the military strikes and American deployment, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him.
In public comments, Maduro asserted that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, we are invincible."
The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing disputed re-election that global monitors deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, we will talk with him."
