The Venezuelan government Issues Final Warning to International Airlines: Restore Services or Face Consequences
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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a stern warning to international airlines, requiring they resume flights to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their flight clearances.
Airlines Halt Operations Following US Warning
Multiple international carriers suspended their Venezuelan operations after the American FAA issued a warning about heightened security risks in the region.
The warning came as the United States escalated pressure by sending naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what reports describe as enhanced naval deployment.
Affected Airlines
- Spanish airlines: Iberia
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the global aviation body.
Safety Issues
The FAA advisory specifically highlighted concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing worsening safety situation and increased military movements.
Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite certain carriers continuing operations.
Aviation Reaction
Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning that further reduction in connectivity would damage Venezuela's interests.
The association emphasized that member airlines had only temporarily suspended 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 alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since early September.
Leadership Conflict
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and American deployment, alleging the US of seeking regime change.
In public comments, Maduro asserted that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, citing disputed re-election that international observers deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the option for dialogue with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, I will speak with him."
