Venezuela Delivers Final Warning to International Airlines: Resume Flights or Face Consequences
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Venezuela has delivered a stern warning to international airlines, demanding they restart operations to the country in the next two days or risk losing their flight clearances.
Carriers Halt Services Following US Warning
Several major airlines suspended their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator raised concerns about heightened security risks in the region.
This alert followed as the United States increased tensions by sending naval forces to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Spanish airlines: Air Europa
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," warned the global aviation body.
Safety Issues
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing deteriorating security conditions and increased military movements.
Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite some airlines maintaining services.
Industry Response
Industry groups have urged Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, cautioning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests.
The association emphasized that participating carriers had only temporarily suspended operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when situation stabilizes.
Growing Tensions
Bilateral tensions have worsened amid increased US military presence in the region, which Washington claims aims to fight narcotics trade.
Naval operations have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since the beginning of fall.
Political Standoff
Venezuelan President 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 "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, citing controversial 2024 elections that international observers deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the option for dialogue with Maduro, suggesting that "eventually, I will speak with him."
