The Federal Aviation Administration issued an emergency notice to US pilots flying in Venezuela airspace to remain at an altitude of least 26,000 feet.
The political crisis in the country could cause ‘inadvertent risk’ to planes, the FAA says.
US airlines no longer fly into the country due to the escalating political unrest after American Airlines pulled out in March.
The airline took action after pilot union leaders cautioned members not to operate flights due to safety risks.
However some routes from the US to other South American countries transit Venezuelan airspace.
American Airlines’ Brazil bound flights have bypassed Venezuela airspace for some time, although the airline says this is due to the expensive air-navigation fees imposed.
The FAA has not put an end date on the restriction and will likely keep it active until the situation stabilizes in the country.
The FAA said exceptions to the rule will need approval from the regulator or other relevant US government agencies.
