IATA Calls for Reversal of Airline Permit Revocations in Venezuela: What You Need To Know

Published on December 1, 2025

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has urged the Venezuelan government to reconsider its recent decision to revoke the operating permits of several international airlines. The move has triggered significant disruptions, as multiple airlines have temporarily suspended flights to and from Venezuela, citing safety concerns and airspace risks. This decision, coming in the wake of aviation safety alerts from both Spain and the United States, has created considerable uncertainty for both airlines and travellers.

Venezuela’s Airline Permit Revocations Spark International Concern

In a shocking move on 26 November 2025, Venezuela’s civil aviation authority revoked the operating permits of key airlines, including Iberia, LATAM Airlines, Avianca, Turkish Airlines, TAP Air Portugal, and GOL Linhas Aéreas. This decision came after several airlines suspended operations to the country, following air safety advisories issued by the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) and Spanish authorities. These alerts highlighted safety concerns about potential hazards in Venezuelan airspace, including military activities and GPS disruptions, which may affect both commercial and private flights.

The revocation of airline permits is particularly concerning for international connectivity to Venezuela, which relies on foreign carriers for a significant portion of its air travel. This decision has prompted IATA to call on the Venezuelan government to work towards a resolution, stressing that such actions could have long-lasting implications for the country’s aviation sector.

IATA’s Response and Appeal to Venezuelan Authorities

The IATA expressed deep concerns over the revocation, stressing that it had been made without sufficient clarity on the safety criteria involved. IATA has urged Venezuelan authorities to provide clear guidelines and to work with the aviation community to ensure safety and security while restoring connectivity. According to Fritz Müller, Senior VP of Revenue at RateGain, the move threatens to isolate Venezuela, cutting it off from key international markets, and risks severely disrupting passenger travel for the festive season.

Despite the challenges, IATA emphasised that international airlines are committed to resuming flights as soon as conditions permit. The airlines involved have stated their willingness to resume services once a safe and secure operating environment is established, with a focus on passenger safety and crew protection. IATA reiterated that airlines will continue to work with local authorities to navigate these difficulties and restore normal operations as soon as possible.

Impact on Airlines and Travellers

The decision to revoke permits has already caused significant disruptions in flight schedules. For passengers, this could lead to delays, cancellations, or the need for rerouted flights, particularly as several major international carriers had been servicing Venezuela. The affected airlines, having temporarily halted operations, are now working to address the issues and maintain their long-term commitment to the Venezuelan market.

From a commercial perspective, airlines now face challenges in managing their network planning and accommodating affected passengers. The IATA’s call for clear communication from Venezuelan authorities is vital to help airlines navigate these complex operational challenges. Travel agents, tour operators, and other stakeholders in the travel industry will need to carefully monitor flight availability, adjust itineraries, and communicate any changes to passengers effectively.

The Safety Situation: What Triggered the Airline Suspensions?

The recent airline suspensions came after safety alerts from the FAA and Spain’s aviation safety authority, which raised concerns about the safety of flights in Venezuelan airspace. These alerts highlighted potential risks such as GPS interference, military activities in the region, and other disruptions that could affect commercial flights, particularly for those flying across or near the Venezuelan borders. As a result, several international airlines voluntarily suspended flights as part of their safety protocols.

In response to the revocation of permits, IATA has made it clear that airlines must prioritise passenger safety above all else, and that this decision is aimed at mitigating any potential risks to passengers and crew. However, the association is also calling for clarification and collaboration to restore air services to Venezuela.

Looking Ahead: The Road to Resolution

The situation in Venezuela’s aviation sector remains uncertain as both airlines and regulatory bodies continue to seek solutions. IATA has called for the Venezuelan authorities to issue a clear and transparent framework for resuming operations. This includes defining safety conditions, risk assessments, and timelines for the potential resumption of services. This level of clarity is necessary for airlines to plan their operations, manage disrupted schedules, and provide reassurance to passengers who have been impacted by the ongoing disruptions.

For travel industry professionals, the message is clear: vigilance is key, and airlines, travel agencies, and tour operators must stay adaptable and proactive to ensure that affected customers are well taken care of during this disruption. Furthermore, IATA encourages timely rebooking and offers solutions such as flexible cancellation policies to facilitate passenger management during this period of uncertainty.

What’s Next for Venezuela’s Aviation Market?

As Venezuela faces these significant challenges in its aviation sector, the IATA continues to push for a resolution that restores safety, clarity, and connectivity. While airlines are committed to resuming flights once conditions permit, it remains critical for Venezuelan authorities to provide the necessary regulatory framework to facilitate these operations.

The safety of passengers must always be the primary concern for the aviation industry, and the need for clear guidelines is urgent. As the situation develops, the next steps taken by the Venezuelan government will have a significant impact on the future of international air travel to Venezuela and its standing in the global aviation market.