The Venezuelan government Delivers Ultimatum to International Airlines: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions
Aviation image credit
Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to international airlines, demanding they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Carriers Suspend Services Following American Alert
Several major airlines suspended their flights to Venezuela after the US aviation regulator issued a warning about increased military activity in the region.
The warning came as the US government increased tensions by deploying naval forces to the Caribbean region, including what reports describe as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Air Europa
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Revoking flight permissions would only isolate the country further," warned the global aviation body.
Safety Issues
The FAA advisory specifically highlighted concerns about operating in the Maiquetía region, citing worsening safety situation and increased military movements.
Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen dramatically decreased global connectivity despite certain carriers maintaining services.
Industry Response
Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning that further reduction in connectivity would harm the country.
Industry representatives stressed that participating carriers had only briefly halted operations and remained committed to restoring services when situation stabilizes.
Escalating Conflict
US-Venezuela relations have deteriorated amid increased US military presence in the region, which Washington claims aims to fight narcotics trade.
Naval operations have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since the beginning of fall.
Leadership Conflict
National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the military strikes and broader US presence, accusing Washington of seeking regime change.
In public comments, Maduro declared that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
American officials has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, citing disputed re-election that global monitors considered irregular.
Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, I will speak with him."
