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 international airlines, requiring they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Airlines Suspend Operations Following American Alert
Multiple international carriers halted their Venezuelan operations after the American FAA issued a warning about heightened security risks in the region.
This alert followed as the US government escalated pressure by sending military assets to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment.
Affected Airlines
- Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra
- 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," warned the global aviation body.
Safety Issues
The FAA advisory specifically mentioned concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, citing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.
Maiquetía airport, which serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite certain carriers maintaining services.
Industry Response
Industry groups have urged Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further reduction in connectivity would harm the country.
The association emphasized that participating carriers had only temporarily suspended operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve.
Escalating Conflict
Bilateral tensions have worsened amid American naval deployments in the region, which US officials state aims to fight narcotics trade.
Naval operations have included multiple strikes against suspected drug vessels in regional seas since the beginning of fall.
Political Standoff
National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and broader US presence, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him.
In public comments, Maduro declared that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
American officials has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing controversial 2024 elections that global monitors considered irregular.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, we will talk with him."
