Venezuela Issues Ultimatum to International Airlines: Resume Flights or Face Consequences
Aviation photo credit
The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to international airlines, demanding they restart operations to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their flight clearances.
Carriers Halt Operations Following US Warning
Multiple international carriers halted their Venezuelan operations after the American FAA raised concerns about heightened security risks in the region.
This alert followed as the United States escalated pressure by sending military assets to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only isolate the country further," warned the global aviation body.
Security Concerns
The FAA advisory specifically highlighted concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, referencing deteriorating security conditions and increased military movements.
Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen dramatically decreased international traffic despite some airlines maintaining services.
Industry Response
Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, cautioning that further reduction in connectivity would harm the country.
The association emphasized that member airlines had only briefly halted operations and remained committed to restoring services when conditions improve.
Escalating Conflict
US-Venezuela relations have deteriorated amid increased US military presence in the region, which US officials state aims to fight narcotics trade.
Naval operations have included multiple strikes against suspected drug vessels in Caribbean waters since the beginning of fall.
Political Standoff
National leader Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the military strikes and American deployment, alleging the US of seeking regime change.
In recent statements, Maduro asserted that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, citing controversial 2024 elections that international observers deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, suggesting that "eventually, we will talk with him."
