Venezuela Revokes Licenses of Turkish Airlines and Five Other Carriers

As tensions between Venezuela and the United States continue to escalate, a critical decision directly affecting air traffic in the region has been announced. Following a security warning issued by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Turkish Airlines (THY) and five international airlines temporarily suspended their Istanbul, Caracas flights between November 24 and 28. In response, Venezuelan authorities revoked the operating permits of these carriers.

The Caracas administration accused Turkish Airlines, Iberia, TAP, Avianca, LATAM Colombia, and GOL, airlines that unilaterally halted their flights, of “participating in U.S.-backed state terrorism.” According to Reuters, Venezuela’s civil aviation authority has officially withdrawn the operational licenses of the affected airlines.

Behind the security warnings is Washington’s growing military buildup in the region. Citing efforts to “combat drug trafficking,” the United States has deployed its largest aircraft carrier, eight warships, and an F-35 fleet to the Caribbean. While these developments have fueled international speculation about a potential intervention in Venezuela, the Venezuelan government responded by announcing the mobilization of 4.5 million militia members. President Nicolás Maduro stated that the country is fully prepared to respond to any possible attack.

Following the suspension of flights, the Venezuelan government gave airlines a 48-hour deadline to resume operations. Iberia stated that it would continue flights once security conditions are ensured, while Air Europa and Plus Ultra, both of which also suspended flights, reportedly have not yet had their permits revoked.

According to a report by The Washington Post, the possibility of Maduro seeking refuge in Türkiye was mentioned. However, considering Türkiye’s current position in relation to the U.S. and NATO, such a move would be highly complex and politically sensitive. Can Türkiye be described as the middle sibling trying to stay out of trouble, yet constantly being pulled by both sides?