Airlines Suspend Venezuela Flights After US FAA Warning on Military Activity & Security Risks

Airlines Suspend Flights to Venezuela Amid US FAA Security Warning

International air travel to Venezuela is facing significant disruption as numerous airlines have begun indefinitely suspending flights following a severe warning from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA's advisory highlighted escalating security concerns and heightened military activity within Venezuelan airspace, prompting caution for all aircraft.

FAA's Grave Warning Cites 'Unspecified Threats'

Issued last Friday, the FAA's warning specifically noted "unspecified threats" that could potentially endanger aircraft at all altitudes, including during takeoff, landing, and even while on the ground. This grave assessment has led to a cascade of flight cancellations from major international carriers, indicating the seriousness with which the advisory has been received.

Major Carriers Halt Operations Indefinitely

Marisela de Loaiza, who presides over the Airlines Association in Venezuela, confirmed that six airlines—TAP, LATAM, Avianca, Iberia, Gol, and Caribbean—have ceased operations to the country without a set resumption date. Additionally, Turkish Airlines implemented a temporary suspension from November 24 to 28. The exact duration of these flight halts, particularly for the indefinitely suspended carriers, remains unclear, creating uncertainty for travelers and the aviation industry alike.

Colombian President Condemns Flight Blocks

The decision has drawn sharp criticism from regional leaders. Colombian President Gustavo Petro voiced his strong disapproval on social media, asserting that "there must be regular flights to all Latin American countries and from Latin America and the world." He further condemned such actions, stating, "Countries are not blocked, because blocking countries means blocking people and that is a crime against humanity."

This escalating situation underscores the ongoing geopolitical tensions and their direct impact on civilian travel and international connectivity for Venezuela, raising questions about humanitarian access and regional stability.