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Venezuela has delivered a firm ultimatum to international airlines, requiring they restart operations to the country in the next two days or risk losing their flight clearances.

Airlines Suspend Operations Following American Alert

Multiple international carriers halted their Venezuelan operations after the US aviation regulator raised concerns about heightened security risks 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.

Affected Airlines

• Carriers from Spain: Plus Ultra
• South American airline: Gol Airlines
• Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
• Colombian airline: Avianca
• Portuguese operator: TAP Air Portugal
• Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines

"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only isolate the country further," 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 serves Caracas, has seen significantly reduced international traffic despite certain carriers maintaining services.

Aviation Reaction

Aviation organizations have requested Venezuelan authorities to remove the ultimatum, warning that further reduction in connectivity would harm the country.

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

Escalating Conflict

Bilateral tensions have deteriorated amid American naval deployments in the region, which US officials state aims to fight narcotics trade.

Recent military actions have included multiple strikes against suspected drug vessels in Caribbean waters since early September.

Political Standoff

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the naval actions and American deployment, accusing Washington of seeking regime change.

In public comments, Maduro declared that "Nobody can overcome Venezuela, our strength is unmatched."

American officials has repeatedly characterized Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, citing controversial 2024 elections that international observers considered irregular.

Amid conflicts, American leader Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, indicating that "at some point, I will speak with him."