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Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to global carriers, demanding they resume flights to the country within 48 hours or risk losing their flight clearances.

Airlines Halt Services Following American Alert

Several major airlines halted their flights to Venezuela after the American FAA raised concerns about heightened security risks in the region.

The warning came as the United States increased tensions by sending naval forces to the southern Caribbean, including what sources indicate as significant military presence.

Affected Airlines

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

"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only increase Venezuela's isolation," warned the International Air Transport Association.

Security Concerns

American aviation warning specifically mentioned concerns about flying near Caracas airport, citing worsening safety situation 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.

Aviation Reaction

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

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

Growing Tensions

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

Naval operations have included numerous interventions against alleged narcotics shipments in Caribbean waters since the beginning of fall.

Leadership Conflict

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 asserted that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, we are invincible."

The United States has consistently labeled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, referencing disputed re-election that international observers considered irregular.

Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the option for dialogue with Maduro, suggesting that "at some point, we will talk with him."