The International Air Transport Association (IATA) called on Venezuelan authorities for greater clarity and cooperation following the ultimatum issued by the National Institute of Civil Aeronautics (INAC) to suspend traffic rights for airlines that do not resume operations within a mandatory 48-hour period.

Operational tensions arose after several carriers suspended flights to the South American country in response to safety warnings recently issued by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Spanish authorities.

The body representing the global industry urged authorities involved in the assessment of Venezuelan airspace safety to work in alignment to provide certainty to operators transiting the Maiquetía Flight Information Region (FIR).

Safety vs. Connectivity

The conflict escalated this Monday when INAC demanded the immediate return of operations under the threat of revoking permits. In response, IATA clarified that the flight pause is due to technical protocols and not arbitrary commercial decisions.

"IATA emphasizes that these suspensions are temporary measures," the association highlighted in its official statement, "adopted following rigorous risk analyses to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and aircraft, in accordance with international standards established in Annexes 6 and 17 of the Chicago Convention".

The association warned about the consequences of forcing operations without adequate guarantees. "This decision will further reduce connectivity to the country," the body noted, "which is already one of the least connected in the region".

Context of the Warnings

The airlines' decision aligns with safety notices (NOTAMs) issued by the FAA on November 21 and by Spanish aviation authorities on November 24. Both entities warned of potential risks to civil aviation and recommended avoiding overflight of Venezuelan airspace.

In this scenario, IATA reiterated its members' willingness to resume services once the environment is safe. "IATA member airlines," the statement concluded, "remain committed to restoring operations to and from Venezuela as soon as conditions allow".

The organization also offered to maintain open channels of communication with local authorities to coordinate actions that protect passenger rights and comply with current safety regulations.