The Venezuelan government Delivers Ultimatum to International Airlines: Restore Services or Risk Sanctions
Aviation image credit
The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to global carriers, demanding they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Carriers Halt Services Following US Warning
Several major airlines suspended their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA raised concerns about increased military activity in the region.
The warning came as the US government escalated pressure by sending military assets to the Caribbean region, including what reports describe as enhanced naval deployment.
Affected Airlines
- Carriers from Spain: Air Europa
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only isolate the country further," cautioned the global aviation body.
Security Concerns
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.
Maiquetía airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen dramatically decreased global connectivity despite some airlines continuing operations.
Aviation Reaction
Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests.
The association emphasized that participating carriers had only briefly halted operations and remained committed to restoring services when conditions improve.
Growing Tensions
US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid American naval deployments in the region, which Washington claims aims to fight narcotics trade.
Recent military actions have included multiple strikes against suspected drug vessels in Caribbean waters since the beginning of fall.
Leadership Conflict
National leader Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the naval actions and American deployment, alleging the US of seeking regime change.
In public comments, Maduro asserted that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, citing controversial 2024 elections that global monitors considered irregular.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, suggesting that "at some point, we will talk with him."
