Post by : Rameen Ariff

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States has alerted airlines regarding heightened risks in Venezuelan airspace due to escalating military tensions and deteriorating security conditions. Issued on Friday, this advisory emphasizes the need for pilots and airlines to be more vigilant, though it stops short of banning flights over the region.

This warning follows a notable buildup of US military assets close to Venezuela, including advanced aircraft carriers, warships, F-35 stealth jets, and thousands of military personnel. Officials from the US maintain that this military presence is focused on combating drug trafficking rings across Latin America.

Beginning in September, Venezuela has launched several extensive military drills and mobilized numerous military and reserve forces. The FAA has reported an uptick in disturbances to global satellite navigation systems within Venezuelan airspace, which could disrupt flight operations. However, officials from Venezuela have not suggested any plans to target civilian flights.

The FAA advises that every aspect of flight operations within Venezuelan airspace—including overflights, arrivals, departures, and airport activities—should be undertaken with special caution. Airlines from the US traveling over Venezuela for other South American routes are now required to notify the FAA 72 hours in advance. Several carriers, including American Airlines, have ceased flights across Venezuelan airspace.

President Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela has decried the US military escalation, asserting it could serve as a pretext for regime change. Simultaneously, US forces have allegedly targeted vessels in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, reportedly resulting in the deaths of over 80 individuals accused of drug trafficking, with no public evidence of wrongdoing presented.

Direct flights between the US and Venezuela have been halted since 2019. The FAA has stated it will keep a close watch on the region's security landscape and update aviation guidelines accordingly.

This advisory underscores the escalating tensions between Washington and Caracas, raising significant concerns surrounding airline safety in Venezuelan airspace.

#Global