The Venezuelan government Delivers Ultimatum to International Airlines: Restore Services or Risk Sanctions
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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to international airlines, requiring they resume flights to the country within 48 hours or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Airlines Suspend Operations Following American Alert
Multiple international carriers suspended their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator issued a warning about heightened security risks in the region.
This alert followed as the US government increased tensions by sending naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as significant military presence.
Affected Airlines
- Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only isolate the country further," cautioned the International Air Transport Association.
Safety Issues
American aviation warning specifically highlighted concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing worsening safety situation and increased military movements.
Maiquetía airport, which serves Caracas, has seen dramatically decreased international traffic despite some airlines maintaining services.
Industry Response
Aviation organizations have urged Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning that further reduction in connectivity would damage Venezuela's interests.
The association emphasized that participating carriers had only briefly halted operations and remained committed to restoring services when situation stabilizes.
Growing Tensions
US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid increased US military presence in the region, which Washington claims aims to combat drug trafficking.
Naval operations have included multiple strikes against suspected drug vessels in regional seas since early September.
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 recent statements, Maduro asserted that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
American officials has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing controversial 2024 elections that global monitors considered irregular.
Despite tensions, US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, we will talk with him."
