Venezuela Delivers Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Face Consequences
Airport photo source
The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to international airlines, demanding they resume flights to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Airlines Suspend Operations Following US Warning
Several major airlines suspended their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA raised concerns about heightened security risks in the region.
This alert followed as the US government escalated pressure by sending military assets to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment.
Affected Airlines
- Carriers from Spain: Air Europa
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only increase Venezuela's isolation," warned the global aviation body.
Safety Issues
The FAA advisory specifically highlighted concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities.
Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen dramatically decreased global connectivity despite certain carriers continuing operations.
Industry Response
Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning 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 conditions improve.
Growing Tensions
US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid American naval deployments in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking.
Recent military actions have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since early September.
Leadership Conflict
National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and broader US presence, alleging the US of attempting to overthrow him.
In public comments, Maduro asserted that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has consistently labeled Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, citing disputed re-election that global monitors considered irregular.
Despite tensions, US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, we will talk with him."
