Venezuela Issues Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions
Aviation photo source
Venezuela has delivered a stern warning to international airlines, requiring they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Airlines Halt Services Following American Alert
Several major airlines halted their flights to Venezuela after the US aviation regulator raised concerns about increased military activity in the region.
This alert followed as the US government increased tensions by sending naval forces to the Caribbean region, including what reports describe as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Air Europa
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only isolate the country further," cautioned the global aviation body.
Safety Issues
The FAA advisory specifically highlighted concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing worsening safety situation and increased military movements.
Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite certain carriers maintaining services.
Industry Response
Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further reduction in connectivity would damage Venezuela's interests.
The association emphasized that member airlines had only briefly halted operations and remained committed to restoring services when situation stabilizes.
Growing Tensions
US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid increased US military presence in the region, which Washington claims aims to combat drug trafficking.
Naval operations have included numerous interventions against suspected drug vessels in Caribbean waters since early September.
Political Standoff
National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the military strikes and broader US presence, alleging the US 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 controversial 2024 elections that global monitors deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, I will speak with him."
