Venezuela Issues Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Risk Sanctions
Aviation photo source
The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to international airlines, requiring they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or face revocation of their flight clearances.
Carriers Halt Services Following US Warning
Several major airlines suspended their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA issued a warning about increased military activity in the region.
This alert followed as the US government increased tensions by deploying naval forces to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment.
Affected Airlines
- Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra
- 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 isolate the country further," cautioned the International Air Transport Association.
Security Concerns
The FAA advisory specifically highlighted concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities.
Maiquetía airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen dramatically decreased international traffic despite certain carriers continuing operations.
Industry Response
Industry groups have urged Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, cautioning that further loss of air links 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 increased US military presence in the region, which US officials state aims to fight narcotics trade.
Recent military actions have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since the beginning of fall.
Leadership Conflict
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the military strikes and broader US presence, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him.
In recent statements, Maduro declared that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
American officials has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing disputed re-election that global monitors deemed flawed.
Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the option for dialogue with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, we will talk with him."
