Air Canada and WestJet Suspend Cuba Flights Amid Severe Aviation Fuel Crisis

Air Canada and WestJet have halted flights. They stopped all service to Cuba. This follows a major fuel crisis. The island lacks enough jet fuel. This affects many winter travel plans.

Background on Fuel Shortages

Cuba faces a deep energy crisis. Aviation fuel supplies are very low. This impacts major island airports. It includes Havana and Varadero hubs. Airlines cannot refuel their planes there. This makes return flights very risky.

Industry data shows supply chain gaps. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) tracks this. Fuel shortages often hit the Caribbean. Safety remains the top priority now. Carriers must protect their flight crews. They must also protect their aircraft.

Impact on Flight Operations

Both airlines are sending empty planes. These are special repatriation ferry flights. They will pick up stranded tourists. No new passengers can fly there. This ensures Canadians return home safely.

Flight schedules are now fully suspended. This includes all seasonal winter routes. The suspension may last several weeks. Airlines are monitoring the fuel levels. They wait for steady supply chains.

Key Details for Travelers

Travelers should check their flight status. Most airlines offer full ticket refunds. Some provide credits for future travel. Contact your airline for latest updates. Do not go to the airport. Wait for official airline email notices.

Industry and Economic Impact

This crisis hurts the tourism sector. Cuba relies on Canadian vacationers heavily. Flight cancellations reduce vital tourism income. It also disrupts local airport jobs. Other international airlines may follow suit.

Experts suggest a long recovery time. Fuel infrastructure needs urgent repair work. Until then, flight risks remain high. Canadian carriers will wait for stability. They want to ensure reliable service.

According to recent industry reports, fuel tankering is not enough. Planes cannot carry enough extra fuel. The weight limits are too strict. This makes direct flights very difficult. Safety rules prevent these long trips.

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