Venezuela Delivers Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Restore Services or Risk Sanctions
Airport image source
Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to global carriers, demanding they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or face revocation of their operating licenses.
Carriers Suspend Operations Following American Alert
Multiple international carriers suspended their Venezuelan operations after the American FAA raised concerns about increased military activity in the region.
This alert followed as the United States increased tensions by sending naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as significant military presence.
Affected Airlines
- Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra
- Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
- Chilean company: Latam Airlines
- Colombian airline: Avianca
- Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
- Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines
"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only isolate the country further," cautioned the International Air Transport Association.
Safety Issues
American aviation warning specifically mentioned 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 significantly reduced global connectivity despite some airlines maintaining services.
Aviation Reaction
Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, warning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests.
Industry representatives stressed that participating carriers had only briefly halted operations and remained committed to restoring services when situation stabilizes.
Escalating Conflict
Bilateral tensions have worsened amid increased US military presence in the region, which Washington claims aims to fight narcotics trade.
Naval operations have included numerous interventions against suspected drug vessels in Caribbean waters since early September.
Political Standoff
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the naval actions and American deployment, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him.
In recent statements, Maduro declared that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."
The United States has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, referencing controversial 2024 elections that international observers considered irregular.
Despite tensions, US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, suggesting that "at some point, I will speak with him."
