US aviation authority issues 60‑day caution for flights over Mexico, Central & South America
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a series of flight advisories urging airlines to exercise caution when flying over Mexico, Central America and parts of South America, citing the risk of military activities and GPS interference that could affect aviation safety.
Effective January 16 for 60 days, the Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) cover airspace above Mexico, Panama, Ecuador, Colombia and sectors of the eastern Pacific Ocean, warning that potential risks exist at all altitudes, including during takeoff, overflight, and landing phases.
The warnings follow heightened regional tensions after a recent U.S. military operation in Venezuela and broader concerns over possible military actions. Mexico’s government responded by stating that the FAA advisory is precautionary, applies only to U.S. operators, and does not affect Mexican civil aviation operations.
Airlines regularly adjust routing and safety protocols based on NOTAMs, and this development has drawn attention from carriers monitoring geopolitical impacts on flight navigation and airspace security.
