Venezuela Issues Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions
Airport image credit
Venezuela has delivered a stern warning to global carriers, requiring they restart operations to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Carriers Suspend Operations Following US Warning
Multiple international carriers suspended their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator issued a warning about increased military activity in the region.
This alert followed as the US government increased tensions by sending military assets to the Caribbean region, including what reports describe as significant military presence.
Affected Airlines
- Spanish airlines: Air Europa
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the International Air Transport Association.
Security Concerns
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.
Maiquetía airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite certain carriers maintaining services.
Aviation Reaction
Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning that further loss of air links 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
US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid American naval deployments in the region, which US officials state aims to fight narcotics trade.
Naval operations have included numerous interventions against suspected drug vessels in Caribbean waters since the beginning of fall.
Political Standoff
National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and broader US presence, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him.
In recent statements, Maduro asserted that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing disputed re-election that international observers deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the option for dialogue with Maduro, suggesting that "eventually, we will talk with him."
