US Issues NOTAM Flight Alert Of “Heightened Military Activity” Over Venezuela

Key Takeaways:

• The FAA issued a NOTAM that covers all Venezuelan airspace.
• The advisory cites “heightened military activity” posing potential risks to flights.
• A U.S. aircraft carrier group is patrolling waters off Venezuela.
• President Trump has not discounted future military action in Venezuela.
• President Maduro responded that any U.S. strike would be “the biggest mistake” of Trump’s life.

FAA Issues Advisory Over Venezuelan Airspace

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has released a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) pertaining to the Maiquetía Flight Information Region, which covers all of Venezuela and sections of the southern Caribbean. The warning highlights “a potentially hazardous situation” and “heightened military activity” that could affect flights at all altitudes, including overflight routes, airport approaches, and ground operations.

Military Buildup in the Caribbean

For several weeks, U.S. forces have maintained a significant presence off Venezuela’s coast. This buildup includes a U.S. aircraft carrier group patrolling Caribbean waters. Analysts closely watching these maneuvers worry they may be a precursor to broader military action against the administration of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

Growing Threat of Escalation

The situation has been tense since reports emerged of drone strikes targeting what the Trump administration described as drug boats. Over the last few weeks, more than twenty vessels were reportedly attacked, with over eighty fatalities. While U.S. officials have cited counternarcotics missions, critics argue that these strikes mark a further escalation of hostilities.

Trump and Maduro Exchange Warnings

President Donald Trump signaled on Monday that he has not ruled out sending additional troops into Venezuela. His statement follows weeks of heightened tensions among military forces in the region. President Maduro, for his part, warned that any U.S. strike would be “the biggest mistake” of Trump’s life, underscoring the gravity of the standoff. Maduro also sent a letter to the White House urging diplomatic talks in hopes of de-escalating the crisis.

Potential Risks for Global Aviation

The FAA’s latest directive underscores the possible risk to commercial and cargo flights. By design, the NOTAM aims to keep aviation stakeholders informed of dangerous conditions. According to FAA guidance, aircraft traveling through Venezuelan airspace could face unforeseen threats during overflight, departure, and landing.

Looking Ahead

With the new advisory set to last through early 2026, tension in the region appears poised to continue. Whether diplomatic channels can defuse the crisis remains to be seen, but for now, all eyes remain fixed on the skies — and seas — around Venezuela.