Venezuela restricts incoming US cargo flights

Venezuelan authorities are restricting the entry into the country of US cargo flights. Both importers and airliners claimed that for some weeks incoming US cargo planes have been limited.

"This is to confirm you that at this moment the Government of Venezuela has restricted the flight licenses for US-flagged aircraft, resulting in decreasing frequency of flights to Caracas, like other airlines." Such answer was issued by a carrier to its customer in Venezuela via e-mail to explain the reasons for delayed operations.

This is not the only case. Courier Zoom Multiservicios also forwarded a notice to its customers that have international mailboxes to elaborate on the troubles experienced to bring commodities in Venezuela.

"This is to inform you of late or discontinued admission of US planes from July 17, 2012 through July 31, 2012, due to the cancellation of landing clearance for US carriers." The notice adds that the step "was taken" by the National Institute of Civil Aviation (Inac).

It was disclosed unofficially that the Venezuelan government resolved to increase the requirements from US airliners in reply to "lack of reciprocity" in the treatment to Venezuelan carriers willing to enter the United States.

rdeniz@eluniversal.com