FAA warns pilots to avoid Venezuelan airspace as US plans new operations

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has warned pilots to avoid Venezuelan airspace due to a rapidly escalating security situation, issuing a notice to airmen (NOTAM) that cites increased military activity, GPS interference, and potential threats to civil aircraft at all altitudes. The warning comes as senior US officials say the Trump administration is preparing a new phase of operations targeting Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s government.

According to the officials, the next phase of operations is expected to begin in the coming days and may include covert activity, marking a notable escalation in Washington’s approach toward Caracas. The officials said the effort aims to increase pressure on Maduro’s government, which the US has long accused of involvement in narcotics trafficking and other destabilizing activity in the region.

The NOTAM, issued on November 21, 2025, covers the Maiquetía Flight Information Region (SVZM FIR) and remains valid through February 19, 2026. It cites “a potentially hazardous situation” due to a “worsening security situation and heightened military activity in or around Venezuela,” and warns of threats to aircraft at “all altitudes,” including during overflight, takeoff, landing, or while on the ground.

Several carriers canceled or rerouted flights over Venezuela on November 23, citing the advisory and the uncertain security environment. The FAA also warned operators about recent reports of global navigation satellite system (GNSS) interference — including jamming and spoofing — affecting aircraft transiting the region, with disruptions reported up to 250 nautical miles from the source.

Air traffic through the area has dropped sharply in recent days as airlines route flights around Venezuelan airspace.

The US has deployed the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group and other naval assets to the Caribbean in recent months. US officials say the deployment is intended to increase pressure on Venezuela and disrupt operations the US alleges are tied to narcotics trafficking. Venezuela, for its part, accuses Washington of pursuing regime change and says it has mobilized its own forces in response.

While officials say no final decision has been made on the scope or duration of US operations, the new phase indicates Washington is keeping open the option of combining covert or overt tools with drone, air, or maritime assets.

The advisory notes that airspace over politically volatile regions can become unstable even when civil aircraft are not directly involved in hostilities, with nearby military activity or electronic interference posing risks. It also outlines new requirements for operators, including an FAA’s rule requiring 72 hours’ advance notice from US carriers planning to enter the affected area.

Airlines, charter operators, and regulators are monitoring the situation for any changes to overflight restrictions, possible extensions of NOTAM coverage beyond the current FIR, or operational impacts tied to the broader US-Venezuela standoff. Authorities have not indicated whether additional measures are under consideration as security assessments continue.The post FAA warns pilots to avoid Venezuelan airspace as US plans new operations appeared first on AeroTime.

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