Several airlines, including Iberia and Avianca, suspended flights to Venezuela following a warning from the US Federal Aviation Administration about risks in Venezuelan airspace. The alert mentions navigation system interferences and increased military activity. Colombia's Civil Aeronautics authority activated coordination measures to ensure safety.
On Friday, November 22, 2025, the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a warning to airlines about a 'potentially dangerous situation' when overflying Venezuela, urging heightened precautions due to deteriorating security and increased military activity in the country and surrounding areas.
This alert comes amid a major US military deployment in the region, including the Navy's largest aircraft carrier, at least eight warships, and F-35 aircraft. Since September, GNSS interferences have been reported in Venezuela, with civil aircraft experiencing persistent effects during flights. The FAA noted that Venezuela has conducted multiple military exercises and mobilized thousands of troops, including reservists, though it has not expressed intent to target civil aviation. Venezuelan forces possess advanced fighter jets and anti-aircraft systems capable of reaching commercial flight altitudes.
In response, Iberia canceled flights to Caracas starting Monday until further notice; the Saturday flight from Caracas to Madrid had already departed. An Iberia spokesperson told Reuters: 'The company will evaluate the situation to decide when to resume flights to that country.' Avianca, Latam Airlines, TAP Air Portugal, and Gol also suspended operations. Latam canceled Bogotá-Caracas-Bogotá routes for November 23 and 24, offering passengers date changes up to a year without penalty, refunds, or alternative routes to Cúcuta. TAP canceled Saturday and Tuesday flights, stating: 'This decision arises after information issued by US aviation authorities indicating that security conditions in Venezuelan airspace are not guaranteed.' Gol suspended Saturday and Sunday flights.
Colombia's Civil Aeronautics authority (Aerocivil) activated coordination measures with airlines, conducting technical analyses on route impacts and adjusting procedures. 'Travelers can be calm: we are adjusting routes so all flights remain safe,' they assured. Aerocivil reminded operators to notify the FAA 72 hours in advance if needed and will continue monitoring in dialogue with international authorities.