Iberia cancels flights. Are the US poised to take action against Maduro’s Venezuela regime?

Spanish airline Iberia has suspended all commercial flights to Venezuela, effective immediately, with no specific timeline for resumption. The decision, announced on Saturday, November 22, follows a critical safety advisory issued by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommending extreme caution for all aircraft operating in or overflying the Maiquetía Flight Information Region, which encompasses Venezuelan airspace and parts of the southern and eastern Caribbean. This move by the Spanish flag carrier impacts its first scheduled service to Venezuela in some time, originally planned for Monday, November 24.

The US FAA's advisory highlights a "potentially dangerous situation" arising from deteriorating security conditions and heightened military activity within and around Venezuela. The warning explicitly cites risks to aircraft at all altitudes, including during overflights, arrivals, departures, and ground operations at regional airports. Key concerns include potential satellite navigation interference and ongoing military exercises, which pose significant operational challenges and safety hazards for commercial aviation. Iberia confirmed its decision aligns with actions taken by other international carriers that have similarly suspended or rerouted services to Venezuela.

This aviation disruption unfolds amidst a significant US military buildup in the broader Caribbean region. Analysts widely interpret this military presence as part of Washington's escalating pressure campaign against the government of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. While Iberia's primary concern remains passenger and crew safety, the airline's decision directly reflects the complex interplay between geopolitical tensions and civil aviation operations. Iberia states it will continue to closely monitor developments on the ground and within Venezuelan airspace before announcing any potential restart of services, underscoring the fluid and uncertain operational environment.