The Venezuelan government Issues Final Warning to International Airlines: Restore Services or Risk Sanctions
Aviation photo source
The Venezuelan authorities have issued a stern warning to global carriers, demanding they resume flights to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Airlines Suspend Services Following American Alert
Several major airlines halted their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator raised concerns about increased military activity in the region.
The warning came as the US government escalated pressure by deploying naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as significant military presence.
Affected Airlines
- Carriers from Spain: Air Europa
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only isolate the country further," warned the International Air Transport Association.
Safety Issues
The FAA advisory specifically highlighted concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, referencing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.
Maiquetía airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen dramatically decreased international traffic despite certain carriers continuing operations.
Aviation Reaction
Aviation organizations 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 committed to restoring services when situation stabilizes.
Growing Tensions
US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid increased US military presence in the region, which Washington claims aims to fight narcotics trade.
Naval operations have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since the beginning of fall.
Political Standoff
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced 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, we are invincible."
The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, referencing controversial 2024 elections that international observers deemed flawed.
Despite tensions, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the option for dialogue with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, I will speak with him."
