The Venezuelan government Issues Final Warning to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Face Consequences
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Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to global carriers, requiring they restart operations to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their flight clearances.
Carriers Suspend Services Following US Warning
Multiple international carriers halted their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA raised concerns about increased military activity in the region.
The warning came as the US government escalated pressure by deploying naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what reports describe as enhanced naval deployment.
Affected Airlines
- Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," warned the International Air Transport Association.
Security Concerns
American aviation warning specifically highlighted concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, referencing deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities.
Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite some airlines continuing operations.
Aviation Reaction
Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests.
The association emphasized that participating carriers had only briefly halted operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve.
Escalating Conflict
US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid American naval deployments in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking.
Recent military actions have included numerous interventions against suspected drug vessels in Caribbean waters since the beginning of fall.
Political Standoff
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the military strikes and American deployment, alleging the US of attempting to overthrow him.
In public comments, Maduro declared that "They will not defeat Venezuela, we are invincible."
American officials has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, referencing disputed re-election that international observers considered irregular.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the option for dialogue with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, we will talk with him."
