FAA Issues Flight Advisory for Latin America Amid Military Activities

FAA Alerts Airlines to Exercise Caution

Washington, Jan 17: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States has issued a warning to airlines regarding potential hazards, urging them to "exercise caution" when flying over Mexico and various Latin American nations due to ongoing "military activities."

According to an FAA representative, flight advisory notices have been disseminated to pilots for designated regions in Mexico, Central America, Panama, as well as the airspaces of Bogota, Guayaquil, and the Mazatlan Oceanic Flight Regions, including areas within the eastern Pacific Ocean. This advisory will remain in effect for 60 days starting Friday.

The agency cautioned that there could be disruptions to global navigation satellite systems, which may create safety risks for aircraft, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

Warnings of a “potentially hazardous situation” have been issued for several locations, including regions above the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California, also referred to as the Sea of Cortes.

In response, Mexico's Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications and Transport clarified that the FAA's aeronautical notice is a preventive measure and does not impose any restrictions on Mexican civil aviation.

The ministry emphasized that the advisory is not a prohibition but a precautionary step to enhance vigilance and safety in air operations within specific airspace regions.

"There are no operational restrictions for Mexico, nor for Mexican airlines or operators," the statement confirmed.

The FAA's advisories come amid increased regional tensions following a US military operation earlier this month that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his spouse.