Venezuela Issues Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Face Consequences
Aviation photo credit
The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to international airlines, requiring they restart operations to the country in the next two days or risk losing their operating licenses.
Airlines Suspend Services Following American Alert
Several major airlines halted their flights to Venezuela after the US aviation regulator 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.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Air Europa
- Brazilian carrier: 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
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.
Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen dramatically decreased international traffic despite some airlines continuing operations.
Industry Response
Industry groups have urged Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, warning that further reduction in connectivity would harm the country.
The association emphasized that member airlines had only temporarily suspended operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when situation stabilizes.
Growing Tensions
Bilateral tensions have worsened amid American naval deployments in the region, which Washington claims aims to fight narcotics trade.
Recent military actions have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since the beginning of fall.
Leadership Conflict
National leader Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the military strikes and American deployment, alleging the US of seeking regime change.
In recent statements, Maduro declared that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing controversial 2024 elections that international observers considered irregular.
Despite tensions, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the option for dialogue with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, we will talk with him."
