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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to global carriers, demanding they resume flights to the country within 48 hours or risk losing their flight clearances.

Airlines Suspend Operations Following American Alert

Several major airlines suspended their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator issued a warning about increased military activity in the region.

This alert followed as the United States increased tensions by deploying military assets to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment.

Affected Airlines

• Spanish airlines: Plus Ultra
• Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
• Chilean company: Latam Airlines
• Colombian airline: Avianca
• Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
• Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines

"Revoking flight permissions 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 deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities.

Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite some airlines maintaining services.

Aviation Reaction

Industry groups have urged Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests.

Industry representatives stressed that participating carriers had only temporarily suspended operations and remained committed to restoring services when situation stabilizes.

Growing Tensions

Bilateral tensions have deteriorated amid increased US military presence in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking.

Recent military actions have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since early September.

Political Standoff

National leader Nicolás Maduro has vehemently denounced both the military strikes and broader US presence, alleging the US of attempting to overthrow him.

In recent statements, Maduro declared that "They will not defeat Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."

American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, citing controversial 2024 elections that global monitors deemed flawed.

Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has not ruled out the option for dialogue with Maduro, suggesting that "at some point, I will speak with him."