On 3 Jan 2026, the FAA issued a temporary flight ban for US operators in the TJZS/San Juan FIR following US airstrikes in Venezuela, citing safety-of-flight risks from heightened military activity and spillover effects into the region.

That prohibition was short-lived. Subsequent FAA Notams have returned the guidance to an advisory, with US operators now advised to exercise caution at all altitudes in the San Juan FIR while elevated military activity continues.

Earlier airspace warnings for the region had already highlighted increased state and military aircraft activity, including operations not fully coordinated with civilian ATC, in a busy civil corridor.

The primary risks currently include military aircraft operating close to civil traffic, the potential for misidentification, and reduced ATC and traffic visibility.

Major Events:
3 Jan 2026: US airstrikes in Venezuela. FAA issues prohibition Notams affecting the San Juan FIR.
Late 2025: Increased US naval and air activity across the southern Caribbean raises regional risk levels.
Nov 2025: FAA issues airspace warning for the TJZS/San Juan FIR, citing increased state aircraft operations.