In a warning (NOTAM), the U.S. agency told airmen to “be cautious” when flying through the region that includes Venezuela and parts of the Caribbean Sea at all altitudes due to “the deteriorating security situation and increased military activity in and around Venezuela.” The attached note explains that the reason is the increasing interference with satellite navigation systems since September and the exercises of the Venezuelan military.
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Why did the FAA issue a warning for planes?
What are the reasons for navigation disruptions over Venezuela?
How long will the FAA warning remain in effect?
Which troops are conducting exercises in Venezuela?
The warning is valid until February
“Since early September, Venezuela has conducted numerous military exercises and ordered a massive mobilization of thousands of soldiers and reservists. Although Venezuela has never expressed any intention to attack civil aviation, the Venezuelan military has advanced fighters and multiple weapons systems capable of reaching or exceeding the operational ceilings of civilian aircraft, as well as the potential low-altitude threat from man-portable anti-aircraft missile systems (MANPADS) and anti-aircraft artillery,” it said. The warning is valid from Friday until February 19.
American carriers have been banned from flying over Venezuela since 2019. Friday's warning comes at a time of growing tensions between the US and Venezuela and US threats to use force against the regime of Nicolas Maduro, who is accused by Washington of leading a drug cartel. This cartel, Cartel de los Soles (Cartel of the Suns), will be formally recognized by the US as a terrorist organization on November 24, which, according to US President Donald Trump, is to give America the opportunity to strike against Venezuela.
At the same time, Trump said on Friday that he would soon talk to the Venezuelan leader and tell him “something very specific.” He declined to provide details, but added that the US would be “very engaged” in Venezuela.
