Airlines halt Venezuela flights: TAP, Iberia, Gol and Avianca suspend Caracas service after FAA safety warning
TAP Air Portugal, Iberia, Gol and Avianca have suspended flights to Caracas and other Venezuelan destinations after an FAA NOTAM warned of increased military activity and security risks, effective Nov. 21, sharply reducing international connectivity and travel options.
Key takeaways
- Major carriers paused service: Iberia, TAP, Avianca and Gol halted routes following the FAA advisory.
- FAA NOTAM A0012/25: Warned of “increased military activity” and deteriorating security over Venezuela and parts of the southern Caribbean.
- Some airlines still operating: Copa, Air Europa, Plus Ultra and Turkish Airlines continue flights while monitoring conditions.
- Passengers offered relief: Affected travelers have been given refunds or rebooking options; national regulators require formal coordination for changes.
Main story
Which airlines stopped flights — and when
Several major international carriers suspended service to Caracas and other Venezuelan airports after the U.S. FAA issued a safety alert. Notable actions include:
- Iberia — canceled all flights to Venezuela starting Nov. 24, and said it will reassess conditions before resuming service (source: Aviacionline; EFE).
- Avianca — suspended the Bogotá–Caracas route from Nov. 21, citing the FAA advisory as making safe operation impossible (source: Aviacionline; The Street).
- TAP Air Portugal — halted Lisbon–Caracas flights scheduled for Nov. 22 and Nov. 25, citing U.S. safety warnings and crew/passenger protection (source: Aviacionline; The Street).
- Gol (Brazil) — canceled weekend flights between São Paulo and Caracas for the immediate period and said further changes depend on new security assessments (source: Aviacionline; EFE).
Why airlines acted: the FAA NOTAM and military activity
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration issued NOTAM A0012/25, advising carriers to “exercise extreme caution” in Venezuelan airspace. The notice cited increased military activity and said security risks affect flights at all altitudes — overflights, approaches, departures and parked aircraft (reported by EFE).
Aviation analysts note that heightened military flights and electronic activity can create hazards for civilian aircraft, prompting airlines to prioritize crew and passenger safety.
The alert followed an increase in U.S. military presence in the Caribbean, including operations around the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group. U.S. officials say activity is focused on drug interdiction and regional security; Venezuelan authorities have described the moves as threatening (coverage: EFE; video reporting).
Which carriers still fly and what they say
Not all airlines halted service. Copa Airlines (Panama), Air Europa, Plus Ultra and Turkish Airlines have continued scheduled flights to Caracas while closely monitoring the situation and following aviation authority guidance (source: Aviacionline).
U.S. carriers have largely avoided Venezuela for years; American and Delta stopped using Venezuelan airspace in recent months, and no U.S. airline has flown to Venezuela since 2019. The FAA advisory reinforces those long-standing route decisions (reported: The Street).
Passenger options, refunds and regulatory steps
Airlines that canceled flights state they will offer refunds and rebooking options. Some carriers proposed reroutes via third countries or refunds where rebooking is impractical. Travelers are advised to contact airlines directly for specific instructions (source: EFE).
National aviation authorities are enforcing rules on operational changes; in some jurisdictions regulators require 72-hour notice for schedule modifications to ensure coordination and minimize disruption (reported by EFE).
Impact on Venezuela’s international ties and travel
Aviation analysts warn that the suspensions fracture Venezuela’s links to major markets in Latin America and Europe. With several European and Latin carriers pausing service, options for travelers and cargo are reduced, likely increasing costs and transit times (analysis: Aviacionline).
Airports in Caracas and other cities face revenue loss from fewer landings, passenger services and retail. Airlines and airports may negotiate slot and fee adjustments if stoppages continue; local tourism and cargo-dependent businesses could experience short-term strain.
Implications for San Diego, California
San Diego’s economy and travelers could feel indirect effects. Although there are no direct commercial routes to Caracas from San Diego, disruptions through hubs in Panama, Bogotá, Madrid and São Paulo may cause delays or higher fares for multi-leg itineraries connecting from San Diego (reporting: Aviacionline; The Street).
Local travel agencies, community groups and logistics planners should alert clients to rebooking rules, refunds and FAA/State Department advisories. Port and aviation planners should monitor federal advisories that could alter air routes or military activity and prepare for indirect effects on cargo scheduling and logistics (EFE).
Advice for San Diego travelers and businesses
- Check airline communications for refunds or rebooking policies before making plans (source: EFE).
- Allow extra time and prepare for longer connections when transiting hubs that serve Latin America (source: Aviacionline).
- Stay updated on FAA and Department of State advisories that may affect route availability and safety (source: EFE).
Reporting and sources
This report draws on coverage by Aviacionline, EFE, The Street and broadcast reporting (video reporting).
Authorities cited include the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration’s NOTAM A0012/25 and national aviation regulatory statements reported in those outlets.
