Venezuela Delivers Final Warning to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Risk Sanctions
Airport image credit
Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to international airlines, requiring they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or risk losing their operating licenses.
Carriers Halt Operations Following American Alert
Multiple international carriers suspended their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator issued a warning about increased military activity in the region.
The warning came as the United States escalated pressure by sending naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment.
Affected Airlines
- Spanish airlines: Air Europa
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only increase Venezuela's isolation," warned the global aviation body.
Security Concerns
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing worsening safety situation and increased military movements.
Maiquetía airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite some airlines maintaining services.
Aviation Reaction
Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests.
The association emphasized that member airlines had only briefly halted operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when situation stabilizes.
Growing Tensions
US-Venezuela relations have deteriorated amid increased US military presence in the region, which Washington claims aims to combat drug trafficking.
Recent military actions have included numerous interventions against suspected drug vessels in regional seas since the beginning of fall.
Political Standoff
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the naval actions and broader US presence, alleging the US of attempting to overthrow him.
In recent statements, Maduro declared that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
American officials has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, citing disputed re-election that global monitors considered irregular.
Despite tensions, American leader Donald Trump has left open the option for dialogue with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, I will speak with him."
