Turkish Airlines has temporarily halted its flights between Istanbul and Caracas after the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a security advisory warning of potentially dangerous conditions in Venezuelan airspace.

The suspension affects services scheduled between November 24 and 28, 2025, marking another setback for international aviation links to the region amid mounting geopolitical tensions.

FAA Warns of Hazardous Airspace Conditions

According to the FAA advisory, Venezuelan airspace poses heightened risks due to the deployment of advanced military aircraft, air defense installations, and anti-aircraft weaponry capable of reaching civilian flight altitudes. Although the FAA stopped short of declaring a full ban, it instructed U.S. carriers to provide 72-hour advance notice before operating in or near the region.

In response, Turkish Airlines canceled multiple flights on its Istanbul–Caracas route during the advisory period. The airline emphasized that the suspension is precautionary and temporary, pending further security assessments.

Passenger Rebooking Efforts Underway

Turkish Airlines announced that passengers affected by the suspension are being rebooked on alternative routes via Bogota, Panama, Cancun, Mexico, or Havana. The carrier confirmed that its Istanbul–Havana flights remain uninterrupted, allowing continued connectivity to the region through Cuba.

Travel agencies have been instructed to process itinerary changes using designated waiver codes to ensure smooth rebooking for all impacted travelers.

Broader Impact on International Air Travel

The FAA alert has triggered wider industry repercussions, with several major airlines—including LATAM, TAP, Iberia, Avianca, GOL, and Caribbean Airlines—temporarily suspending operations to Venezuela. These cancellations have significantly reduced international access to the country, deepening concerns over air travel safety and regional instability.

Rising Regional Tensions Fuel Uncertainty

The aviation disruptions come amid escalating political and military tensions between the United States and Venezuela. Washington has recently deployed naval assets, including the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier, to the region. In response, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has mobilized militia units, while senior Venezuelan defense officials have issued sharp criticisms of U.S. policy.

Analysts warn that the volatile security environment is increasingly affecting civilian aviation, with airlines weighing safety concerns against the need to maintain international routes.

Turkish Airlines has not announced whether flights will resume after November 28 but said it will continue monitoring developments and issue updates as necessary. (ILKHA)