Venezuela Delivers Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions
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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a stern warning to international airlines, requiring they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or face revocation of their flight clearances.
Carriers Halt Operations Following American Alert
Multiple international carriers suspended their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA issued a warning about increased military activity in the region.
This alert followed as the United States escalated pressure by deploying military assets to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as significant military presence.
Affected Airlines
- Spanish airlines: Plus Ultra
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the global aviation body.
Security Concerns
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, citing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.
Maiquetía airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen dramatically decreased global connectivity despite certain carriers continuing operations.
Aviation Reaction
Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, warning that further reduction in connectivity would damage Venezuela's interests.
The association emphasized that member airlines had only briefly halted operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve.
Growing Tensions
US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid increased US military presence in the region, which Washington claims aims to combat drug trafficking.
Naval operations have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since early September.
Leadership Conflict
National leader Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the military strikes and broader US presence, accusing Washington of seeking regime change.
In recent statements, Maduro declared that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing disputed re-election that global monitors considered irregular.
Despite tensions, US President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, we will talk with him."
