Venezuela Delivers Ultimatum to International Airlines: Restore Services or Face Consequences
Airport image source
Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to international airlines, demanding they resume flights to the country in the next two days or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Airlines Halt Services Following US Warning
Multiple international carriers halted their Venezuelan operations after the American FAA issued a warning about heightened security risks in the region.
The warning came as the US government escalated pressure by deploying naval forces to the Caribbean region, including what reports describe as enhanced naval deployment.
Impacted Carriers
- Carriers from Spain: Iberia
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- European airline: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," warned the International Air Transport Association.
Security Concerns
The FAA advisory specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing worsening safety situation and increased military movements.
Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite some airlines continuing operations.
Aviation Reaction
Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, cautioning that further reduction in connectivity would damage Venezuela's interests.
The association emphasized that member airlines had only temporarily suspended operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve.
Escalating Conflict
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 numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since early September.
Leadership Conflict
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced 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, we are invincible."
The United States has consistently labeled Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, citing disputed re-election that global monitors deemed flawed.
Despite tensions, US President Donald Trump has left open the option for dialogue with Maduro, suggesting that "at some point, I will speak with him."
