Venezuela’s civil aviation authority, known as the Instituto Nacional de Aeronáutica Civil (INAC), has issued a directive requiring international airlines to resume their flights to the country within 48 hours, or face potential revocation of their operating permits. This directive came after several airlines canceled flights to and from Venezuela following a warning from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regarding a "potentially hazardous situation" over the Maiquetía region. The FAA’s NOTAM, issued on November 21, highlighted concerns about safety, prompting carriers to suspend operations temporarily.
Since September, regional security tensions have escalated, with the United States increasing military presence in the Caribbean and conducting strikes on suspected drug trafficking vessels. These regional developments have affected aviation operations, leading carriers such as Iberia, GOL Linhas Aéreas Inteligentes, Avianca, LATAM Airlines Group, TAP Air Portugal, Air Europa, Turkish Airlines, and Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas to cancel their scheduled flights. Nevertheless, Copa Airlines and Wingo (Panama) continue to operate flights to Venezuela. The duration of suspension varies by airline, with Iberia indicating flights may restart by December 1, while others plan for later dates.
Impacts and Regional Tensions
The cancellations and renewed restrictions reflect ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Venezuela and external military activities. The Venezuelan government has responded by urging airlines to resume services swiftly to restore connectivity and mitigate economic disruptions.
The situation is subject to change as regional security and diplomatic developments evolve, with airlines closely monitoring the safety advisories and government instructions. The international community continues to observe the geopolitical tensions impacting the Caribbean and South American airspace, which may lead to further adjustments in flight operations.
