The Venezuelan government Issues Final Warning to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Face Consequences
Aviation photo source
The Venezuelan authorities have issued a stern warning to global carriers, requiring they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Airlines Halt Services Following US Warning
Several major airlines suspended their Venezuelan operations after the American FAA raised concerns about increased military activity in the region.
The warning came as the US government escalated pressure by sending naval forces to the Caribbean region, including what reports describe as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Spanish airlines: Iberia
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only isolate the country further," warned the global aviation body.
Safety Issues
American aviation warning specifically highlighted concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, citing deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities.
Maiquetía airport, which serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite certain carriers maintaining services.
Industry Response
Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning 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 American naval deployments in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking.
Recent military actions have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since early September.
Political Standoff
National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the naval actions and American deployment, alleging the US of seeking regime change.
In recent statements, Maduro asserted that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, referencing disputed re-election that global monitors deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the option for dialogue with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, we will talk with him."