The Venezuelan government Issues Final Warning to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Risk Sanctions
Airport image source
Venezuela has delivered a stern warning to global carriers, demanding they resume flights to the country within 48 hours or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Airlines Suspend Operations Following US Warning
Multiple international carriers suspended their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator issued a warning about heightened security risks in the region.
This alert followed as the US government increased tensions by sending military assets to the southern Caribbean, including what reports describe as enhanced naval deployment.
Affected Airlines
- Spanish airlines: Plus Ultra
- Brazilian carrier: 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 International Air Transport Association.
Safety Issues
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about operating in the MaiquetÃa region, citing worsening safety situation and increased military movements.
MaiquetÃa airport, which serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite certain carriers continuing operations.
Aviation Reaction
Aviation organizations have urged Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, warning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests.
Industry representatives stressed that member airlines had only temporarily suspended operations and remained committed to restoring services when situation stabilizes.
Growing Tensions
US-Venezuela relations have deteriorated amid increased US military presence in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking.
Naval operations have included multiple strikes against suspected drug vessels in Caribbean waters since the beginning of fall.
Leadership Conflict
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the naval actions and broader US presence, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him.
In recent statements, Maduro asserted that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, citing controversial 2024 elections that international observers considered irregular.
Despite tensions, US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, I will speak with him."
