Caribbean Tensions: How Airspace Restrictions Threaten Regional Aviation and Tourism.

The Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC) has called for a Caribbean Day of Prayer to address the region's rapidly escalating geopolitical crisis.

Archbishop of Port of Spain, Jason Gordon, who is also AEC President, urged all Roman Catholics to observe the day. The call is a direct response to the Southern Caribbean military buildup and its impact on regional stability. Archbishop Gordon specifically appealed for prayers for workers in aviation, shipping, and tourism, who face new risks from the instability and rising costs. The AEC represents 19 Dioceses across the region, including 13 independent countries and various overseas territories.

Escalating Airspace Risks and Operational Impact

The geopolitical tension aviation concerns have intensified significantly since late 2025. The AEC noted that a troubling military build-up has now escalated into active military operations. These operations include tanker seizures and new airspace restrictions that affect the daily lives of Caribbean people. The bishops stated they cannot remain silent when developments threaten the long-held vision of the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace.

FAA Warnings and Flight Suspensions

The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued warnings regarding the worsening security situation. The FAA urged pilots to exercise caution over Venezuelan airspace due to heightened military activity. The agency cited threats that could pose a potential risk to aircraft at all altitudes.

• The situation has prompted a wave of new regulatory notices from aviation authorities.
• Concerns are growing over the possibility of military conflict and the accidental downing of civilian aircraft.
• Increased GPS interference, linked to the military action, has also made flight operations dangerous.

Following these warnings, at least eleven airlines temporarily suspended or halted flights to Venezuela. Carriers like TAP Air Portugal, LATAM, Avianca, Iberia, GOL, and Caribbean Airlines paused operations. This operational disruption highlights the immediate economic strain on the Caribbean tourism and aviation sectors.

Regional Stability and Call for Dialogue

Archbishop Gordon implored regional leaders to choose dialogue over force and diplomacy over intimidation. He strongly supported the call for the 15-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to meet urgently. The goal is to address the divisive geopolitical disputes that are straining CARICOM unity. The AEC president asked Caribbean leaders to speak with one voice and to desist from public criticism of one another. Fragmentation deepens at a time when unity is essential, he noted.

The Caribbean Sea has become a theatre for confrontation, which is not of the region's making. The Venezuela maritime incidents and increased surveillance activity strain maritime commerce and tourism. These actions endanger the thousands whose livelihoods depend on safe and open seas. The AEC affirmed that militarisation is not the road to durable security.

Economic and Humanitarian Concerns

The Southern Caribbean military buildup poses serious risks to the region’s socio-economic and humanitarian stability. The AEC expressed deep concern that heightened operations endanger the most vulnerable. War, or the threat of war, is always a defeat for humanity, the Archbishop stated. The AEC also reaffirmed solidarity with the people of Venezuela, acknowledging their desire for democratic renewal. The quest for a nation built on justice deserves the solidarity of the Caribbean Community. For more commercial aviation news and analysis on global flight operations, visit flying.flights. Major manufacturers like Airbus and Boeing monitor such geopolitical hotspots closely for operational safety.