FAA Warns Airlines of Potential Risks in Latin American Airspace

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a series of advisories, known as Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs), warning airlines to exercise extreme caution when flying over portions of Mexico, Central America, and South America. The alerts, effective through March 17th, cite the potential for “military activities” and interference with satellite-positioning and navigation systems as the primary concerns.

Details of the FAA Advisories

The FAA released seven NOTAM advisories on Friday afternoon, covering airspace over Mexico, Panama, Ecuador, Colombia, and sections of the Pacific Ocean. These advisories highlight potential risks to aircraft at all altitudes, encompassing overflight, arrival, and departure phases of flight. The FAA’s concern stems from a heightened geopolitical climate and recent events that have increased the risk of unforeseen incidents.

Recent Incidents and Escalating Tensions

The advisories follow two near-miss incidents last month involving U.S. military aircraft and commercial passenger jets off the Venezuelan coast. These close calls occurred after U.S. military actions targeting alleged drug trafficking operations and the seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker. A subsequent military operation against Venezuela led to temporary flight restrictions throughout the Caribbean, causing significant disruptions and stranding thousands of passengers.

Tensions between the U.S. and nations in Central and South America have been escalating since the Trump administration increased its military presence in the southern Caribbean. This culminated in military actions against Venezuela and the seizure of assets. Former President Trump has also alluded to potential military interventions in other countries in the region, including Colombia, and has even suggested U.S. control over the Panama Canal. Recently, threats of military strikes on Mexican soil targeting drug cartels further heightened concerns.

Airline Responses and Mexican Authority Statement

Airlines routinely adjust flight paths based on safety notices like NOTAMs, rerouting flights to avoid potentially hazardous airspace. As of Saturday morning, several U.S. airlines have responded to the FAA advisories.

• United Airlines stated they are “monitoring the situation” and have no further comment at this time.
• Southwest Airlines confirmed they are “in close contact with the U.S. government” and will follow applicable contingency procedures if necessary.
• Delta Air Lines directed inquiries to the FAA.
• American Airlines and JetBlue Airways did not respond to requests for comment.

Mexico’s civil aviation authority, however, issued a statement clarifying that the FAA’s notice applies only to U.S. aircraft and does not necessitate any “operational changes for aviation in our country.” They characterized the notice as a “preventive advisory” rather than a “flight prohibition,” asserting “there is no impact whatsoever on civil aviation in Mexico.”

Increased Demand for Travel Insurance

The recent U.S. raid on Venezuela has triggered a surge in demand for travel insurance, indicating growing anxiety among international travelers regarding geopolitical risks. This highlights the importance of considering comprehensive travel insurance when planning international trips, especially to regions with heightened political instability.

Further Reading

• 2 Near-Collisions Involving US Military Aircraft Near Venezuela Raise Concerns (Forbes)
• Trump’s Venezuela Raid Sends Demand For Travel Insurance Soaring (Forbes)