The Venezuelan government Delivers Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Face Consequences
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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to global carriers, requiring they restart operations to the country in the next two days or risk losing their operating licenses.
Carriers Halt Services Following US Warning
Multiple international carriers halted their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA issued a warning about heightened security risks in the region.
This alert followed as the United States increased tensions by sending military assets to the Caribbean region, including what reports describe as enhanced naval deployment.
Impacted Carriers
- Spanish airlines: Plus Ultra
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only isolate the country further," cautioned the International Air Transport Association.
Security Concerns
The FAA advisory specifically highlighted concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing deteriorating security conditions and increased military movements.
Maiquetía airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite certain carriers maintaining services.
Industry Response
Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, cautioning that further loss of air links would harm the country.
The association emphasized that member airlines had only temporarily suspended operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when situation stabilizes.
Growing Tensions
Bilateral tensions have worsened amid American naval deployments in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking.
Naval operations have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since the beginning of fall.
Political Standoff
National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the military strikes and American deployment, alleging the US of seeking regime change.
In public comments, Maduro asserted that "They will not defeat Venezuela, we are invincible."
The United States has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing controversial 2024 elections that global monitors deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, suggesting that "eventually, I will speak with him."
