Why Did Air Canada Suspend Flights to Cuba? Discover the Fuel Shortage Story!

Air Canada has suspended its flights to Cuba due to a critical shortage of aviation fuel, which has arisen from ongoing geopolitical tensions and supply chain issues. The suspension is effective immediately and will impact approximately 16 weekly flights to four Cuban destinations from Toronto and Montreal. The airline plans to repatriate around 3,000 customers currently in Cuba over the next few days.

Last updated: 14 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As of Monday, Air Canada has halted its flights to Cuba due to a lack of aviation fuel, which will not be available at the island's airports from Tuesday until at least 11 March 2024. This disruption primarily stems from Cuba's dependency on Venezuelan jet fuel, which has been severely affected since mid-December 2022, when U.S. sanctions blocked Venezuela's oil exports. The situation is compounded by rolling blackouts across Cuba, creating further hardship for the local population.

Key takeaways

• Air Canada has suspended its Cuba flights due to an aviation fuel shortage.
• Approximately 3,000 customers in Cuba will be repatriated in the coming days.
• Cuba's fuel crisis is linked to U.S. sanctions against Venezuela, its main fuel supplier.

Timeline: how we got here

The timeline of events leading to Air Canada's suspension of service to Cuba is as follows:

• Mid-December 2022: The U.S. blocks Venezuelan oil exports, affecting Cuba's fuel supply.
• 14 October 2023: Air Canada suspends flights to Cuba due to a shortage of aviation fuel.
• 11 March 2024: Expected date for aviation fuel availability to resume at Cuban airports.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The most recent development is Air Canada's immediate suspension of flights to Cuba as they cannot secure aviation fuel, with the airline stating it will monitor the situation for a possible resumption of services. This situation is exacerbated by the ongoing electricity crisis and U.S. sanctions affecting fuel imports.

What was already established

Cuba has faced escalating fuel shortages since late 2022, largely due to its reliance on Venezuelan oil and the impact of U.S. sanctions. The rolling blackouts across the country have further highlighted the dire energy situation for Cuban citizens.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For UK travellers planning to visit Cuba, the suspension of Air Canada flights signifies potential disruptions in travel plans. Those with existing reservations may need to consider alternative arrangements or face extended delays. Additionally, the energy crisis in Cuba may affect the availability of services and amenities for tourists.

Businesses and jobs

The suspension of flights could have ripple effects on local businesses in Cuba that rely on tourism, which is crucial for the economy. The continuing energy crisis may also impact employment in sectors dependent on stable electricity and tourism.

Policy and regulation

The situation reflects broader geopolitical tensions, with U.S. sanctions influencing not just Cuba but also its relationships with other countries, particularly Venezuela. Observers may watch for any changes in U.S. policy towards Cuba that could further impact fuel availability and international relations.

Numbers that matter

• 16: Weekly flights operated by Air Canada to Cuba before suspension.
• 3,000: Estimated number of customers in Cuba affected by the flight suspension.
• 11 March 2024: The projected date for aviation fuel to potentially become available again.

Definitions and jargon buster

• NOTAM: Notice to Airmen, a notice containing information about the conditions of the airspace and airports.
• Jet fuel: A type of aviation fuel designed for use in aircraft powered by gas-turbine engines.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Travellers should stay updated on the evolving situation regarding flight availability and consider alternative travel routes if needed. Reservations may need to be adjusted based on fuel availability updates.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Monitor U.S. policy changes that could affect fuel supplies and tourism in Cuba. The situation may evolve based on international diplomatic relations and potential negotiations.

Signals to watch

• Updates from Air Canada regarding the resumption of flights.
• Official announcements from the Cuban government about fuel imports.
• Changes in U.S. sanctions policy that could impact Venezuela and Cuba.

Practical guidance

Do

• Check for updates from airlines before planning travel to Cuba.
• Consider travel insurance to cover potential cancellations or delays.

Don’t

• Do not assume that travel plans can proceed as normal without checking current conditions.
• Avoid booking last-minute flights until the situation stabilises.

Checklist

• Review your travel insurance policy for cancellations related to fuel shortages.
• Monitor Air Canada and other airlines for flight updates.
• Stay informed about the political situation in Cuba and its impact on travel.
• Research alternative destinations if travel plans are uncertain.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The current situation in Cuba is fluid, and fuel availability could change based on international negotiations and local conditions. U.S. sanctions against Venezuela may continue to impact Cuba's fuel supply chain, and the potential for further diplomatic tensions remains. Travellers should remain cautious and flexible in their plans.

Bottom line

The suspension of Air Canada's flights to Cuba due to a fuel shortage highlights the interconnectedness of international relations and local economies. Travellers should remain vigilant and prepared for ongoing changes while considering their travel options in light of the current geopolitical landscape.

FAQs

Why has Air Canada suspended flights to Cuba?

Air Canada has suspended flights due to a critical shortage of aviation fuel that is not expected to be available until at least 11 March 2024.

How many customers are affected by this suspension?

Approximately 3,000 customers currently in Cuba will be repatriated by Air Canada over the coming days.

What caused the aviation fuel shortage in Cuba?

The aviation fuel shortage in Cuba is primarily due to U.S. sanctions against Venezuela, which has historically supplied a significant portion of Cuba's jet fuel.