Venezuela Delivers Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Face Consequences
Airport image source
Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to international airlines, demanding they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or risk losing their flight clearances.
Airlines Halt Operations Following US Warning
Several major airlines suspended their flights to Venezuela after the US aviation regulator raised concerns about increased military activity in the region.
The warning came as the US government increased tensions by deploying military assets to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Air Europa
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only isolate the country further," warned the global aviation body.
Security Concerns
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing deteriorating security conditions and increased military movements.
Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite certain carriers maintaining services.
Aviation Reaction
Aviation organizations have urged Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further reduction in connectivity 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 increased US military presence in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking.
Recent military actions have included numerous interventions against suspected drug vessels in regional seas since the beginning of fall.
Political Standoff
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the naval actions and broader US presence, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him.
In public comments, Maduro asserted that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing disputed re-election that global monitors considered irregular.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, I will speak with him."
