Venezuela Demands Resumption of International Flights Amid Regional Tensions

Venezuela Issues Ultimatum to International Airlines

Venezuela's aviation authority, Inac, issued an ultimatum on Monday, demanding that international airlines resume flights to the country within 48 hours. Failure to comply would result in the revocation of their operating clearances.

This directive follows the suspension of flights by several international carriers. These suspensions occurred after the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a "Notice to Air Missions" on Friday. The FAA advised flight operators to exercise caution in the Maiquetía flight information region, which serves Venezuela's capital, Caracas, citing a worsening security situation and heightened military activity.

Affected Carriers and Industry Response

Airlines that halted flights include Spain's Iberia, Air Europa, and Plus Ultra; Brazil's Gol; Chile's Latam; Colombia's Avianca; Portugal's TAP; and Turkish Airlines. Trinidad and Tobago's Caribbean Airlines had already ceased flights to Venezuela in September. Despite these suspensions, some carriers, such as Panama's Copa and Venezuela's state-owned Conviasa, have continued to operate flights to Maiquetía.

The International Air Transport Association (Iata) has urged Inac to withdraw the deadline, stating that such action would further reduce Venezuela's international air connectivity. Iata emphasized that its member airlines' flight suspensions were temporary and affirmed their commitment to restoring operations when conditions allow.

US-Venezuela Tensions

The ultimatum unfolds amidst increasing tensions between the United States and Venezuela. The US has escalated its military presence in the southern Caribbean, publicly stating its objective is to combat drug trafficking. Since early September, the US Navy has conducted 21 strikes against vessels allegedly transporting drugs, primarily in the Caribbean Sea.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has publicly opposed these US military actions, characterizing them as attempts to destabilize his government. The US government considers Mr. Maduro an illegitimate leader, citing the widely disputed 2024 re-election. However, US President Donald Trump has indicated a willingness to engage in direct discussions with Maduro at a future point.