Marisela de Loaiza, president of the Venezuelan Airlines Association (ALAV), announced on 23/11 that several international carriers have halted their services to Venezuela. These include Spain's Iberia, Portugal's TAP, Chile's LATAM, Colombia's Avianca, and Brazil's GOL. She did not specify when these airlines would resume operations.

Turkey's national airline, Turkish Airlines, also confirmed it would cancel all flights to Venezuela from 24-28/11. In contrast, Panama's Copa Airlines, Spain's Air Europa and PlusUltra, along with Venezuela's LASER, continue to maintain normal flight schedules.

A LATAM aircraft in Bogota, Colombia, in May. *Photo: AFP*

This widespread suspension of flights occurred one day after the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an advisory. The FAA urged civilian aircraft to exercise extreme caution when operating in Venezuelan airspace, citing a "deteriorating security situation and increased military activity in the region."

The advisory specifically warned that "threats could pose potential risks to aircraft at all altitudes, including when flying through the airspace, during takeoff and landing phases, and at airports."

The FAA's warning comes amid escalating tensions between the US and Venezuela. Earlier in September, the US military launched an anti-drug operation in the Caribbean Sea, deploying a large number of forces to the region. This action raised concerns that Washington intends to overthrow the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

US forces currently deployed near Venezuela include the Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group, at least 8 surface ships, one special operations support ship, one attack submarine, 8 F-35B stealth fighters, AC-130 attack aircraft, transport aircraft, MQ-9 drones, and over 10,000 troops.

Further intensifying the situation, US officials stated on 22/11 that Washington might list the Cartel de los Soles gang as a terrorist organization. Such a designation would pave the way for targeted operations in Venezuela.