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FAA Warns U.S. Airlines of Hazards Over Venezuela as Military Activity Rises

The FAA has warned U.S. carriers of a "potentially hazardous situation" when flying over Venezuela, citing increased military activity and GNSS interference since September. The agency noted a recent U.S. military buildup in the region and Venezuela's mobilization of thousands of troops and multiple exercises. U.S. airlines must now provide the FAA with at least 72 hours' notice for planned flights over Venezuelan airspace; several carriers have already stopped overflying the country. The FAA will continue to monitor conditions and update guidance if needed.

09:21 AM, 11/22/2025Security
FAA Warns U.S. Airlines of Hazards Over Venezuela as Military Activity Rises

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has alerted major U.S. carriers to a "potentially hazardous situation" for flights transiting Venezuelan airspace and urged operators to exercise heightened caution.

Why the warning was issued

The FAA cited a "worsening security situation and heightened military activity in or around Venezuela," warning that those threats could affect aircraft at any altitude. Since September, aviation authorities have recorded an increase in Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) interference inside Venezuela, with some incidents producing effects that persisted during flights.

The region has also experienced a notable U.S. military presence in recent months, including an aircraft carrier, multiple warships and F-35 aircraft. The U.S. administration under President Donald Trump has conducted strikes on vessels it says were carrying drugs and launched from Venezuelan and other regional shores.

Venezuelan military posture and risks

The FAA said Venezuela has carried out multiple military exercises and mobilized thousands of military and reserve personnel. While Venezuelan authorities have not indicated an intent to target civil aviation, the agency warned that Venezuelan forces operate advanced fighter aircraft and weapons systems capable of reaching or exceeding typical civil aircraft operating altitudes. Additionally, air defense systems and anti-aircraft artillery present potential risks at lower altitudes.

Operational guidance for carriers

The FAA's directive requires U.S. airlines to notify the agency at least 72 hours before planned flights that would overfly Venezuela. The notice stops short of a blanket ban. American Airlines told regulators it stopped routing flights over Venezuela in October; Delta said it ceased such overflights some time ago. United Airlines had no immediate comment.

The FAA said it will continue to monitor the security environment in the region and may update guidance for civil aviation as conditions evolve.

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