🔗 Share this article Venezuela Issues Final Warning to International Airlines: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions Airport image credit Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to global carriers, requiring they resume flights to the country within 48 hours or risk losing their flight clearances. Airlines Suspend Operations Following US Warning Several major airlines halted their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA raised concerns about increased military activity in the region. The warning came as the US government escalated pressure by sending military assets to the southern Caribbean, including what reports describe as enhanced naval deployment. Impacted Carriers Spanish airlines: Air Europa South American airline: Gol Airlines Chilean company: Latam Airlines Colombian airline: Avianca Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal Turkish carrier: Turkish Airlines "Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," cautioned the global aviation body. Security Concerns American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities. Venezuela's main international hub, which serves Caracas, has seen dramatically decreased global connectivity despite some airlines continuing operations. Aviation Reaction Aviation organizations have urged Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, cautioning that further loss of air links would harm the country. Industry representatives stressed that member airlines had only briefly halted operations and remained committed to restoring services when situation stabilizes. Growing Tensions US-Venezuela relations have worsened amid increased US military presence in the region, which US officials state aims to fight narcotics trade. Naval operations have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since early September. Political Standoff Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the naval actions and broader US presence, alleging the US of seeking regime change. In recent statements, Maduro declared that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, we are invincible." The United States has consistently labeled Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, referencing controversial 2024 elections that global monitors deemed flawed. 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."