FAA Issues Caution for Flights Over Eastern Pacific
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a cautionary notice to U.S. airline pilots regarding flying over the eastern Pacific Ocean, specifically near Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America. The warning highlighted potential “military activities” and possible issues with satellite navigation systems.
This advisory was released in a series of Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) on Friday, underscoring that “potential risks exist for aircraft at all altitudes,” especially during different phases of flight like takeoff and landing.
The FAA specifically mentioned areas over Mexico, Central America, Panama, Bogota, Guayaquil, and the Mazatlan Oceanic Flight Regions, along with airspace in the eastern Pacific. It remains unclear what led to these warnings, which encourage pilots to “exercise caution.” The FAA has been approached for additional comments regarding the matter.
Recent Military Actions
The FAA’s warnings come after several months of U.S. military operations targeting suspected drug-trafficking vessels in the Caribbean Sea and the eastern Pacific. Back in November, the FAA had also urged pilots to be careful when flying over Venezuela due to increased military presence and security concerns.
Just last month, there was an incident involving a JetBlue flight from Curaçao that had to stop its ascent to avoid colliding with a U.S. Air Force refueling tanker.
Trump’s Plans Against Drug Cartels
Recently, President Donald Trump discussed plans to intensify operations against drug cartels, specifically noting that the U.S. has effectively disrupted 97% of drugs trafficked by sea and that initiatives will now focus on land operations as well.
“It’s very sad to watch what’s happened to that country,” Trump said, referring to the situation in Mexico.
The latest FAA advisories are set to remain active for 60 days, aiming to ensure the safety of flights in those areas.
