The Venezuelan government Issues Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions
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Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to international airlines, requiring they resume flights to the country within 48 hours or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Airlines Halt Operations Following US Warning
Multiple international carriers suspended their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator raised concerns about increased military activity in the region.
This alert followed as the United States increased tensions by deploying naval forces to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Spanish airlines: Iberia
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only isolate the country further," cautioned the International Air Transport Association.
Security Concerns
The FAA advisory specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing worsening safety situation and increased military movements.
Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen dramatically decreased international traffic despite certain carriers maintaining services.
Aviation Reaction
Aviation organizations have urged Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests.
Industry representatives stressed that participating carriers 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 US officials state aims to fight narcotics trade.
Naval operations have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas 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."
American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, referencing disputed re-election that international observers considered irregular.
Despite tensions, US President Donald Trump has left open the option for dialogue with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, I will speak with him."
