FAA Warns Pilots of Risks Over Eastern Pacific

The FAA has issued a cautionary warning for US aircraft operators flying over parts of the eastern Pacific Ocean due to military activities and satellite navigation interference. This comes in response to increased US military measures against alleged drug trafficking, notably involving recent actions against Venezuela.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has released a cautionary advisory to US aircraft operators flying over the eastern Pacific Ocean near Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America. The advisory cites potential risks from military activities and satellite navigation interference in the area.

The warning, conveyed through a series of Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) issued on Friday, highlights potential threats to aircraft at all altitudes, including during overflight and during arrival and departure phases. Such advisories are standard when there is increased military activity or hostilities in nearby regions.

This caution follows approximately four months of intensified US military operations targeting boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific, alleged to be involved in drug trafficking. After 35 reported strikes leading to 115 fatalities, the US executed a large-scale operation against Venezuela, resulting in the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who now face drug trafficking charges in New York.

(With inputs from agencies.)