The Venezuelan government Issues Ultimatum to International Airlines: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions
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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to international airlines, requiring they resume flights to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their flight clearances.
Airlines Suspend Operations Following US Warning
Several major airlines halted their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA issued a warning about increased military activity in the region.
The warning came as the United States increased tensions by deploying naval forces to the Caribbean region, including what reports describe as enhanced naval deployment.
Affected Airlines
- Spanish airlines: Plus Ultra
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only isolate the country further," cautioned the International Air Transport Association.
Safety Issues
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.
Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite certain carriers maintaining services.
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 member airlines had only temporarily suspended operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve.
Growing Tensions
Bilateral tensions have worsened 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 regional seas since the beginning of fall.
Political Standoff
National leader Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the naval actions and broader US presence, accusing Washington of seeking regime change.
In public comments, Maduro declared that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
American officials has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing controversial 2024 elections that global monitors considered irregular.
Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has left open the option for dialogue with Maduro, suggesting that "eventually, I will speak with him."
