The United States has issued a new NOTAM warning for aircraft flying over or near Venezuela, just hours before President Donald Trump ordered a B-52 bomber to conduct an “attack demo” in the region.
At 1:08 PM ET, the FAA released a Notice to Airmen advising pilots, airlines, and air traffic controllers of a “potentially hazardous situation” tied to growing instability and increased military activity around Venezuelan airspace.
B-52 Bomber Conducts “Attack Demo” Amid Heightened Tensions
Shortly after the FAA’s alert, the U.S. Air Force confirmed that a B-52 nuclear-capable bomber, supported by KC-135 Stratotankers and fighter jets, carried out a bomber attack demonstration in the U.S. Southern Command’s area of operations.
Officials say the operation is part of ongoing missions to deter drug-trafficking networks connected to Venezuela.
NOTAM Covers All Altitudes in Venezuelan Airspace
The FAA warning applies to the Maiquetía Flight Information Region, which spans all Venezuelan airspace and areas of the southern Caribbean, including portions of:
- Colombia
- Guyana
- Brazil
- Trinidad
The notice cautions that potential threats may affect aircraft “at all altitudes”, impacting overflights, takeoffs, landings, and even planes parked on the ground.
Trump Leaves Door Open to Military Action
The release of the NOTAM comes as President Trump escalates pressure on Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. Speaking to reporters, Trump said he “probably would talk to” Maduro but emphasized he is “not ruling out anything,” making clear that military options remain on the table.
He accused Maduro of inflicting “tremendous damage” on the U.S. through drug trafficking and illegal immigration.
Maduro Responds as U.S. Pressure Intensifies
In response, Maduro signaled he was open to dialogue with Washington, fueling speculation over the next phase of U.S.-Venezuela relations.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration is moving toward designating the Cartel de los Soles—a group it claims is directed by Maduro—as a terrorist organization.
U.S. Military Presence Expands in the Caribbean
The increased tension follows a major buildup of U.S. forces in the region, including the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford and multiple warships to the Caribbean. U.S. operations continue to target vessels linked to drug-running routes tied to Venezuela.
