IATA calls for clarity, dialogue and flexibility following the temporary suspension of air operations in Venezuela

IATA called on the authorities and parties involved in the Venezuelan airspace safety assessment to cooperate in a coordinated manner and provide greater clarity to airlines operating in the Maiquetía FIR.

The situation arose after several airlines temporarily suspended their operations following safety advisories issued by the US FAA on November 21, 2025, and by Spanish authorities on November 24, both warning of potential risks to civil aviation and recommending avoiding overflights of Venezuelan airspace.

The association noted that these measures are preventative and respond to risk analyses designed to protect passengers, crews and aircraft, in accordance with the standards established in Annexes 6 and 17 of the Chicago Convention.

Meanwhile, Venezuela's INAC announced that airlines must resume operations within 48 hours under threat of suspension of traffic rights, a decision that could further exacerbate the country's limited connectivity.

IATA reiterated the commitment of its member airlines to restore flights to and from Venezuela as soon as conditions allow, as well as their willingness to maintain open channels of communication to coordinate actions that guarantee safety, connectivity and protection of passengers.

Source: IATA.