Venezuela Issues Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Face Consequences
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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to global carriers, requiring they resume flights to the country in the next two days or risk losing their operating licenses.
Carriers Halt Services Following American Alert
Multiple international carriers halted their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA issued a warning about heightened security risks in the region.
This alert followed as the United States increased tensions by sending naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: 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.
Security Concerns
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing worsening safety situation and increased military movements.
Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite some airlines maintaining services.
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 member airlines had only briefly halted operations and remained committed to restoring 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 fight narcotics trade.
Recent military actions have included numerous interventions against suspected drug vessels in Caribbean waters since the beginning of fall.
Political Standoff
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the naval actions and American deployment, 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 consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, citing controversial 2024 elections that global monitors deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, we will talk with him."
