Venezuela’s aviation authority has banned several airlines from operating in the country, accusing them of “terrorism” after they suspended flights in response to warnings from the United States about increased military activity in the region. The affected airlines, including Iberia, TAP, Avianca, LATAM, GOL, and Turkish Airlines, will have their operational permits revoked for “joining the actions of state terrorism promoted by the United States government,” according to a statement by the civil aviation authority.
The US had warned of heightened military activity in the Caribbean, citing a deployment to target narcotics operations. However, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro believes the move is intended to overthrow his government. The US Federal Aviation Administration had urged civilian aircraft operating in Venezuelan airspace to “exercise caution” due to the “worsening security situation and heightened military activity” in the region.
The Venezuelan Ministry of Transport had given the six airlines a 48-hour deadline to resume flights, which expired on Wednesday. All the airlines maintained their suspension, affecting over 8,000 passengers on at least 40 different flights, according to the Venezuelan Association of Travel and Tourism Agencies.
The US has sent an aircraft carrier strike group, Navy warships, and stealth aircraft to the region, which it claims is aimed at curbing drug trafficking. However, the move has sparked fears in Caracas that regime change is the ultimate goal. The flight suspension has significant implications for travelers and the aviation industry, with the Venezuelan government taking a firm stance against the airlines that have halted operations.
The situation highlights the escalating tensions between the US and Venezuela, with the latter accusing the former of promoting “state terrorism.” The ban on the airlines is likely to further strain relations between the two countries, with potential consequences for regional stability and global air travel. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the affected airlines will respond to the ban and what measures the US will take to address the concerns of the Venezuelan government.