Venezuela bans major global airlines amid heightened US tension

Venezuela has escalated its standoff with the United States by revoking the operating permits of six prominent international airlines, accusing them of abetting state terrorism after they halted flights to the country. The move targets Iberia of Spain, Tap of Portugal, Avianca of Colombia, Latam and Gol, both of Brazil, and Turkish Airlines. These carriers recently suspended operations in response to a security warning issued by the United States Federal Aviation Administration, citing significant military activity and worsening conditions in Venezuelan airspace.

Venezuelan aviation authorities announced the ban late Wednesday, contending that the airlines aligned themselves with initiatives promoted by the US government and unilaterally cancelled their scheduled flights. The authorities have insisted the FAA holds no jurisdiction over Venezuelan airspace, underscoring the sovereignty of domestic civil aviation.

The Portuguese foreign minister described the decision as wholly disproportionate, stating that Portugal’s national carrier had ceased flights solely for the safety of crew and passengers. Diplomatic efforts to reverse the ban have thus far met with resistance, despite Portugal expressing willingness to reinstate flights if security improves. Iberia and Avianca similarly expressed interest in resuming flights once a secure environment is established, while Avianca outlined plans to reintroduce services to Caracas in early December.

The backdrop to these developments is the United States’ considerable military deployment in the Caribbean, justified in part by accusations against the administration of President Nicolás Maduro of facilitating drug trafficking. The Venezuelan government has categorically rejected these allegations, calling the US campaign an attempt to destabilise the country. The heightened military presence has raised genuine concerns among international aviation operators about risk in the region.

Not all airlines have been affected equally. Air Europa and Plus Ultra both suspended services but have retained their operational permissions, while Copa Airlines and its subsidiary Wingo, based in Panama, continue regular flights to Venezuela. A number of domestic carriers also maintain routes to neighbouring countries. The International Air Transport Association reported that airlines were given 48 hours by Venezuelan authorities to resume flights or face expulsion, although many carriers chose not to comply within this timeframe.

The travel and aviation industries now face continuous uncertainty as political and security tensions across the region intensify. These events have highlighted the considerable challenges facing commercial aviation and the broader economic ramifications of deteriorating diplomatic relations.