Airlines Suspend Venezuela Flights After FAA Security Warning

Several airlines have cancelled flights to Venezuela following a warning from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regarding increased dangers due to military activity in the region. On Saturday, six airlines, including Spain’s Iberia, Portugal’s TAP, Chile’s LATAM, Colombia’s Avianca, and Brazil’s GOL, announced the suspension of their services. Marisela de Loaiza, president of the Venezuelan Airlines Association (ALAV), indicated that the duration of these flight cancellations remains unspecified.

While some airlines have halted operations, Panama’s Copa Airlines, Spain’s Air Europa, PlusUltra, and Venezuela’s LASER continue to fly to the country for the time being. Additionally, Turkish Airlines announced the cancellation of flights scheduled from November 24 to November 28.

The FAA’s warning, issued on Friday, advised civilian aircraft to “exercise caution” when flying in Venezuelan airspace. The agency cited a “worsening security situation and heightened military activity” in and around Venezuela. The FAA’s statement noted that potential threats could pose risks to aircraft at all altitudes, including during arrival and departure phases and while on the ground.

As tensions escalate, major U.S. carriers such as American Airlines and United Airlines have ceased overflights of Venezuela. The U.S. has significantly increased its military presence in the region, deploying an aircraft carrier strike group, Navy warships, and stealth aircraft, officially aimed at combating drug trafficking. However, this buildup has raised concerns in Caracas about possible regime change.

On Monday, a U.S. terrorism designation will take effect for a drug cartel allegedly led by Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. This move raises fears that military action could be imminent, especially as the U.S. has conducted strikes against over 20 vessels suspected of drug smuggling in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific since early September, resulting in over 80 casualties.

Despite these military actions, the U.S. has not disclosed concrete evidence linking the targeted vessels to drug trafficking. The situation has heightened regional tensions, with discussions within the Trump administration regarding psychological operations, including the potential for dropping leaflets in the capital city, Caracas, to pressure Maduro.

President Donald Trump expressed his willingness to consider military options, stating, “I don’t rule out anything. We just have to take care of Venezuela.” In response, Maduro has expressed openness to direct talks with Trump.

Currently, around 15,000 U.S. troops are stationed in the region, supported by a naval force that includes the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s most advanced aircraft carrier, along with several guided missile destroyers. Reports indicate that U.S. fighter jets are also stationed in Puerto Rico.

Maduro has faced international criticism for his administration, particularly following the controversial presidential elections in July 2024, which he claimed to have won despite evidence suggesting a loss. The U.S. is among several countries that do not recognize Maduro’s presidency and has accused him of leading a drug cartel, offering a reward of $50 million for information leading to his arrest.

A recent CBS News poll revealed that a majority of Americans oppose military intervention in Venezuela, underscoring the complexities surrounding U.S. involvement in the ongoing crisis. As the situation develops, the implications for both Venezuelan citizens and international relations remain significant.