Maduro Gives Airlines 48 Hours to Resume Flights

Venezuela’s aviation authority has issued a strict 48-hour deadline to international airlines to resume flights to the country or face the suspension of their traffic rights. The move comes after several carriers suspended service, citing safety concerns following a U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) alert.

The FAA’s notice warned pilots to exercise caution while flying in the Maiquetía Flight Information Region due to the “worsening security situation and heightened military activity in or around Venezuela”, covering all altitudes, including overflights, arrivals, and departures.

Major airlines such as Iberia, Turkish Airlines, and Avianca suspended flights in response, while local carriers, including Caribbean Airlines, temporarily paused service to assess risks to passengers and crew. Meanwhile, Venezuelan carriers continue to operate.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) called for better coordination between authorities and airlines, warning that Venezuela’s ultimatum could further reduce critical connectivity, even as carriers remain eager to resume service once conditions allow.

The United States officially designated Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his close allies as members of a foreign terrorist organisation on Monday. The move allows the U.S. to impose tougher sanctions and consider potential military measures. 

Maduro continues to deny all allegations.