Travel to Venezuela has come to a halt due to a U.S. aviation safety alert, prompting several airlines to suspend their flights. This action follows heightened pressure from the Trump administration on President Nicolás Maduro.
As reported, airlines like Brazil’s Gol, Colombia’s Avianca, and TAP Portugal canceled flights from Caracas on Saturday, with more companies making adjustments by Monday. The disruptions also reached Europe and the UK, coinciding with the U.S. government’s move to label the Venezuelan group, known as the Cartel de los Soles, as a foreign terrorist organization.
TAP Airlines stated that their decision was influenced by U.S. safety recommendations that guaranteed no safety assurances. Meanwhile, Spain’s Iberia Airlines announced it would suspend services to Caracas but maintained that flights to Madrid would continue as planned. Copa Airlines and Wingo kept operating, although Latin American Airlines called off a flight to Bogotá on Sunday.
The changes largely stemmed from a warning issued by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which advised airlines to exercise caution while operating in or over Venezuelan airspace, citing potentially hazardous conditions.
In an unusual escalation, the U.S. has increased its military presence in the Caribbean, deploying bombers and warships as part of operations targeting drug trafficking and overseeing airstrikes on suspected drug-smuggling vessels.
On Monday, the State Department formally announced the designation of the Cartel de los Soles, which is known for involving Venezuelan government and military officials in drug trafficking. Secretary of State Marco Rubio remarked last week about the cartel’s role in promoting terrorist violence and facilitating drug transportation to the United States and Europe.
Concerning travel, European governments acted quickly. Germany raised concerns about the tense situation in Venezuela, suggesting it could deteriorate. The UK informed travelers of the potential for last-minute flight cancellations and advised anyone planning to fly in or out of Venezuela to stay in contact with their airline or travel agent.
