AeroMorning , November 24, 2025

Background and Reasons for Suspension
Following a warning issued by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), six major airlines have suspended flights to and from Venezuela.
The carriers involved are Iberia (Spain), TAP Air Portugal, Avianca (Colombia), GOL (Brazil), LATAM (Chile), and Caribbean Airlines (Trinidad and Tobago).
According to Marisela de Loaiza, president of Venezuela’s Airlines Association (ALAV), these suspensions stem from perceived risks in Venezuelan airspace. 

FAA Warning
On November 21, 2025, the FAA issued a NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions) that raised serious safety concerns. The warning points to a “worsening security situation” and “heightened military activity” in and around Venezuela. 
The alert notes that threats could affect aircraft at all altitudes — during overflight, approach, departure, and even while on the ground. 
Moreover, the FAA highlights interference in GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System), caused by jammers and spoofers, which could disrupt critical navigation and communication systems up to 250 nautical miles away. 

Geopolitical Dimension

The FAA’s advisory comes amid significant geopolitical tension: the United States has deployed a substantial naval force — including an aircraft carrier — to the Caribbean.

 While Washington frames this as part of an anti-drug trafficking mission, Caracas views it as a possible coercive tactic.Venezuela accuses the U.S. of leveraging the war on drugs as a pretext for interfering in its internal affairs.

Aviation Impacts

• Fragile connectivity: These suspensions significantly weaken Venezuela’s already limited international air links. According to Air Journal, the country’s connectivity was strained even before this escalation. 
• Passenger disruption: Travelers face uncertainty — rebookings, refunds, and limited flight options. ALAV has encouraged passengers to stay alert to communications from their airlines. 
• Ongoing reassessment: Some carriers (e.g., Copa, Air Europa, Turkish, Laser, PlusUltra) continue flying, but all are closely monitoring the situation. 
• Financial risk: While halting operations has a cost, airlines are prioritizing safety given the current security outlook.

Outlook

• The resumption of flights will largely depend on how the security and military dynamics evolve in Venezuela.
• There may be negotiations involving airlines, Venezuelan authorities, and international regulators to restore flights under safer conditions.
• If tensions ease, services could restart gradually; conversely, renewed alerts might force further disruptions.
• The incident might prompt stronger regional or international regulation on aviation security, particularly relating to GNSS interference.