Venezuela Issues Final Warning to International Airlines: Restore Services or Face Consequences
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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a stern warning to international airlines, demanding they resume flights to the country in the next two days or risk losing their operating licenses.
Carriers Halt Services Following American Alert
Several major airlines halted their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA raised concerns about increased military activity in the region.
This alert followed as the United States escalated pressure by deploying naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Air Europa
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only isolate the country further," warned the International Air Transport Association.
Security Concerns
American aviation warning specifically highlighted concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities.
Maiquetía airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite certain carriers continuing operations.
Aviation Reaction
Aviation organizations have urged 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 briefly halted operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when situation stabilizes.
Growing Tensions
Bilateral tensions have worsened amid American naval deployments in the region, which Washington claims aims to combat drug trafficking.
Naval operations have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since early September.
Political Standoff
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the military strikes and American deployment, alleging the US of attempting to overthrow him.
In recent statements, Maduro asserted that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, we are invincible."
The United States has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing controversial 2024 elections that global monitors deemed flawed.
Despite tensions, US President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, suggesting that "eventually, we will talk with him."
