The Venezuelan government Delivers Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Face Consequences
Airport image source
Venezuela has delivered a stern warning to international airlines, demanding they restart operations to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Airlines Suspend Services Following US Warning
Several major airlines halted their flights to Venezuela after the US aviation regulator 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 sources indicate as significant military presence.
Affected Airlines
- Spanish airlines: Iberia
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance 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 heightened defense activities.
Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite some airlines continuing operations.
Aviation Reaction
Industry groups have urged Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning that further loss of air links would harm the country.
The association emphasized 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 American naval deployments in the region, which US officials state aims to fight narcotics trade.
Naval operations have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since early September.
Leadership Conflict
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the naval actions and broader US presence, accusing Washington of seeking regime change.
In recent statements, Maduro asserted that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, referencing controversial 2024 elections that international observers considered irregular.
Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the option for dialogue with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, we will talk with him."
