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 international airlines, requiring they resume flights to the country in the next two days or risk losing their operating licenses.
Airlines Halt Operations Following US Warning
Several major airlines halted their Venezuelan operations after the American FAA raised concerns about heightened security risks in the region.
This alert followed as the United States increased tensions by deploying military assets to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Iberia
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the International Air Transport Association.
Security Concerns
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing deteriorating security conditions and increased military movements.
Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen dramatically decreased international traffic despite certain carriers continuing operations.
Aviation Reaction
Industry groups have urged Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests.
Industry representatives stressed that participating carriers had only briefly halted operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when situation stabilizes.
Growing Tensions
Bilateral tensions have deteriorated amid increased US military presence in the region, which US officials state aims to fight narcotics trade.
Recent military actions have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since the beginning of fall.
Leadership Conflict
National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and American deployment, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him.
In public comments, Maduro asserted that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has consistently labeled Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, citing disputed re-election that international observers considered irregular.
Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the option for dialogue with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, we will talk with him."
