The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a new alert today warning major airlines of a “potentially hazardous situation” when flying over Venezuelan airspace, citing increased security concerns and elevated military activity in the region.
In its advisory, the FAA said the deteriorating security environment in and around Venezuela poses risks to aircraft “at all altitudes.” The warning comes amid a significant U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean and surrounding waters, including the deployment of the Navy’s largest aircraft carrier, multiple warships, and F-35 fighter jets.
- Advertisement -
U.S. forces have also carried out air and maritime attacks on vessels allegedly involved in drug trafficking operations departing from Venezuela and other Latin American countries.
Some U.S. Airlines Already Avoiding Venezuelan Airspace
Although direct passenger and cargo flights between the United States and Venezuela have been suspended since 2019, several U.S. carriers still pass over the country on routes to South America.
- American Airlines said it stopped overflying Venezuela in October.
- Delta Air Lines confirmed it halted overflights “a while ago.”
- United Airlines did not comment.
The FAA’s directive stops short of a ban but requires carriers to give at least 72 hours’ advance notice before operating flights that pass over Venezuela.
Risks Include GPS Interference and Heightened Military Readiness
The agency reported a rise in Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) interference since September, with disruptions sometimes affecting flights long after leaving Venezuelan airspace. It also cited “activity associated with increasing Venezuelan military readiness.”
“Venezuela has conducted multiple military exercises and directed the mass mobilization of thousands of military and reserve forces,” the FAA said. While Venezuela has not indicated any intent to target civilian aircraft, the FAA emphasized that the country possesses advanced fighter jets and air-defense systems capable of reaching commercial aircraft altitudes.
The agency noted additional low-altitude risks from anti-aircraft artillery and other defense systems.
Monitoring Continues
The FAA said it will continue evaluating conditions in the region and update airline guidance as necessary.
