Several international airlines cancel their flights in Venezuela after US warning

Several international carriers abruptly canceled flights to and from Venezuela following an urgent warning from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regarding a "potentially hazardous situation" in Venezuelan airspace. Brazil's Gol, Colombia's Avianca, and TAP Air Portugal were among the first to suspend services from Caracas on Saturday, with Spain's Iberia also announcing cancellations from Monday until further notice. This swift industry response underscores the serious concerns over aviation safety in the region.

The US FAA's notice specifically cited a "worsening security situation and heightened military activity in or around Venezuela," indicating that potential threats could endanger aircraft at all altitudes. Aeronautica Civil de Colombia corroborated these concerns, referencing "potential risks" in the Maiquetia area due to deteriorating security. TAP Air Portugal confirmed its decision was a direct consequence of the US aviation authorities' information, stating that safety conditions in Venezuelan airspace were not guaranteed.

While several airlines moved to suspend operations, Copa Airlines and Wingo maintained their scheduled flights departing from Simon Bolivar Maiquetia International Airport on Saturday. However, Latam Airlines also canceled a flight to Bogota scheduled for Sunday, signaling broader apprehension across the South American aviation sector. The cancellations have left passengers stranded and disrupted international travel routes, forcing airlines to reassess their operational strategies for the volatile region.

The FAA's warning arrives amidst a significant American military buildup in the region, including the deployment of a US Navy aircraft carrier and other warships. This increased military presence likely contributes to the heightened risk assessment for civil aviation, prompting regulators and airlines to prioritize passenger and crew safety above all else. The situation remains fluid, with airlines continuously evaluating conditions to determine when flights can safely resume.