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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a stern warning to international airlines, requiring they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or risk losing their operating licenses.

Carriers Halt Operations Following US Warning

Multiple international carriers halted their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator raised concerns about heightened security risks in the region.

The warning came as the United States increased tensions by sending military assets to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment.

Affected Airlines

• Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra
• Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
• Chilean company: Latam Airlines
• Colombian airline: Avianca
• European airline: TAP Air Portugal
• Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines

"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only isolate the country further," warned the International Air Transport Association.

Security Concerns

The FAA advisory specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.

Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen significantly reduced global connectivity despite some airlines maintaining services.

Industry Response

Aviation organizations have urged Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, cautioning that further loss of air links would harm the country.

The association emphasized that member airlines had only briefly halted operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when situation stabilizes.

Growing Tensions

Bilateral tensions have deteriorated amid American naval deployments in the region, which US officials state aims to fight narcotics trade.

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 American deployment, alleging the US of seeking regime change.

In recent statements, Maduro declared that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, we are invincible."

American officials has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, referencing controversial 2024 elections that global monitors deemed flawed.

Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, I will speak with him."