WASHINGTON (Pakistan Point News / Sputnik - 16th May, 2019) The US Transportation Department has ordered the suspension of all foreign and domestic flights between the United States and Venezuela due to security concerns, Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao said in notice on Wednesday.
"I agree that the public interest requires an immediate suspension of foreign air transportation between the United States and Venezuelan airports," Chao said in the notice. "Therefore, pursuant to section 44907(e), I am suspending the authority of all US air carriers and foreign air carriers to provide foreign air transportation to or from Venezuelan airports."
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said the decision was made due to "ongoing political stability and increased tensions" in the Latin American country.
The suspension will remain in effect until Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Acting Homeland Secretary Kevin McAleen decide to reverse it after conditions in Venezuela become safe, DHS said in a press release.
Chao said McAleenan determined that the security situation in Venezuela threatens the safety and security of passengers, aircraft and crew traveling between the United States and Venezuela.
The conclusion was based on a number of factors including reports of civil unrest and violence in or around airports in Venezuela and the inability of the Transportation Security Administration to gain access to Venezuelan airports to carry out required security assessments, Chao added.
Venezuela has been plunged into severe unrest since January, after US-backed opposition leader Juan Guaido proclaimed himself interim president of the country. Russia, China and other countries recognize Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro as the only legitimate leader of the country.
