The Venezuelan government Issues Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Face Consequences
Aviation photo source
Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to global carriers, requiring they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Airlines Halt 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 sources indicate as significant military presence.
Impacted Carriers
- Spanish airlines: Iberia
- South American airline: Gol Airlines
- Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
- Andean carrier: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the global aviation body.
Safety Issues
American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.
Maiquetía airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite certain carriers maintaining services.
Aviation Reaction
Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further reduction in connectivity would damage Venezuela's interests.
The association emphasized that member airlines had only temporarily suspended operations and remained committed to restoring services when conditions improve.
Escalating Conflict
US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid American naval deployments in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking.
Naval operations have included multiple strikes against suspected drug vessels in Caribbean waters since the beginning of fall.
Political Standoff
National leader Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the military strikes and American deployment, alleging the US of seeking regime change.
In recent statements, Maduro asserted that "They will not defeat Venezuela, we are invincible."
American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, citing disputed re-election that global monitors considered irregular.
Despite tensions, US President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, suggesting that "eventually, I will speak with him."
