Airlines Halt Flights from Venezuela After U.S. Warning on Rising Security Risks

Several international airlines suspended flights departing from Venezuela over the weekend following a U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) alert about a “potentially hazardous situation” in the country’s airspace. The warning cited a worsening security environment and increased military activity, prompting carriers to reassess the safety of operating in and around Venezuela.

Brazil’s Gol, Colombia’s Avianca, and TAP Air Portugal all canceled their Saturday departures from Caracas, according to Flightradar24 and updates posted by Simón Bolívar Maiquetía International Airport. Colombia’s Aeronáutica Civil emphasized there were “potential risks” in the Maiquetía area due to deteriorating security conditions. TAP Air Portugal confirmed cancellations for both Saturday and the upcoming Tuesday, noting that the U.S. aviation advisory indicated Venezuelan airspace could not be guaranteed safe.

Spain’s Iberia also announced it would suspend flights to Caracas starting Monday and continue the pause until further notice. The airline’s scheduled Saturday service from the Venezuelan capital to Madrid did operate, but the company said it will monitor the situation before determining when flights can resume.

Despite the growing concerns, Copa Airlines and Wingo continued their scheduled operations out of Maiquetía on Saturday. However, additional disruptions are emerging as Latam Airlines canceled its planned Sunday flight to Bogotá, according to Flightradar24.

The FAA’s warning comes amid a significant U.S. military buildup in the region, including the deployment of the Navy’s largest aircraft carrier, multiple warships, and F-35 fighter jets. The heightened military presence has contributed to increased tensions and uncertainty surrounding Venezuelan airspace.

As regional security continues to shift, airlines are expected to keep reviewing conditions closely. Travelers with upcoming flights to or from Venezuela are advised to monitor airline communications and flight status updates as more changes may occur.