🔗 Share this article Venezuela Issues Ultimatum to International Airlines: Restore Services or Face Consequences Aviation image source Venezuela has delivered a stern warning to international airlines, requiring 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 American FAA issued a warning 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: Plus Ultra South American airline: Gol Airlines Latin American operator: 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 mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing deteriorating security conditions and heightened defense activities. Venezuela's main international hub, which handles capital city flights, has seen dramatically decreased international traffic despite certain carriers continuing operations. Industry Response Industry groups have requested Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further loss of air links would harm the country. Industry representatives stressed that participating carriers had only temporarily suspended operations and remained dedicated to reinstating services when conditions improve. Escalating Conflict Bilateral tensions have worsened amid American naval deployments in the region, which Washington claims aims to fight narcotics trade. Recent military actions have included multiple strikes against alleged narcotics shipments in regional seas since the beginning of fall. Leadership Conflict National leader Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the naval actions and broader US presence, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him. In public comments, Maduro declared that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, we are invincible." American officials has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, citing disputed re-election that international observers considered irregular. Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "eventually, we will talk with him."