Canada suspends flights to Cuba after Havana warns airlines it will run out of jet fuel, triggering cancellations, emergency repatriation plans and fresh concerns for the island’s tourism-dependent economy
Canada has responded to Cuba’s deepening jet fuel crisis, with Air Canada suspending flights to the island after being warned that fuel supplies are about to run out.
The airline said it would cancel services to Cuba and operate empty planes to bring home roughly 3,000 passengers already on the island, after Cuban authorities alerted carriers that aviation fuel would soon be unavailable at major airports, reported Reuters.
Other international airlines are now scrambling to adjust schedules, refuel in third countries or rethink operations altogether.
Cuba informed airlines it expects to run out of jet fuel this week, with shortages likely to last until at least mid-March. Nine airports, including Havana’s José Martí International Airport, are expected to be affected.
Some European and Russian airlines are exploring workarounds such as carrying extra fuel or stopping in nearby countries like the Dominican Republic to refuel. But industry officials warn these measures add cost, complexity and delays—and may not be sustainable if the crisis drags on.
Also read |
US announces $6mn in aid to Cuba while fuel blockade triggers severe shortages
Energy crisis worsens
The jet fuel shortage is part of a broader energy crunch gripping Cuba, which relies heavily on imported oil and refined products. Supplies from key partners have dwindled, leaving the island struggling to meet basic fuel needs for transport, power generation and aviation.
The crisis has already hit daily life, with frequent power cuts and fuel rationing. Now, the aviation sector—critical to tourism and foreign currency earnings—is feeling the impact.
Tourism is one of Cuba’s most important sources of income, and prolonged flight disruptions could deal another blow to an economy already under strain. Airlines and travel operators say uncertainty over fuel availability may discourage visitors and force further cancellations. For now, carriers are monitoring the situation closely.
End of Article
