Venezuela Delivers Ultimatum to International Airlines: Restore Services or Risk Sanctions
Airport image source
The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to international airlines, demanding they restart operations to the country in the next two days or risk losing their operating licenses.
Carriers Halt Operations Following US Warning
Multiple international carriers halted their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA raised concerns about heightened security risks in the region.
The warning came as the United States increased tensions by sending naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment.
Impacted Carriers
- Spanish airlines: Plus Ultra
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only increase Venezuela's isolation," warned the International Air Transport Association.
Safety Issues
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, referencing worsening safety situation and increased military movements.
Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen dramatically decreased international traffic despite some airlines continuing operations.
Industry Response
Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further loss of air links would harm the country.
Industry representatives stressed that participating carriers had only temporarily suspended operations and remained committed to restoring services when conditions improve.
Escalating Conflict
Bilateral tensions have worsened amid increased US military presence in the region, which Washington claims aims to fight narcotics trade.
Recent military actions have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since early September.
Political Standoff
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and American deployment, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him.
In public comments, Maduro asserted that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, we are invincible."
American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing disputed re-election that global monitors deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the option for dialogue with Maduro, suggesting that "eventually, I will speak with him."
