Air Canada suspends Havana routes amid a month-long Cuban jet fuel crisis.
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
Air Canada suspended Cuba flights due to a critical jet fuel shortage; the move affects 3,000 travelers as US sanctions limit the island's oil supply.
Key Takeaways
- •Air Canada suspends all service to Cuba from February 10 through March 11, 2026.
- •US sanctions on Venezuelan oil shipments triggered the island-wide jet fuel crisis.
- •WestJet is winding down operations while US carriers continue flights using fuel tankering.
Flight Suspensions Begin
Air Canada is stopping flights to Cuba.
The island is running out of fuel.
This starts on February 10, 2026.
It will last for one month.
The US is blocking oil from Venezuela.
This makes fuel very hard to find.
Air Canada will rescue 3,000 people.
They will fly empty planes to Cuba.
These planes will carry extra return fuel.
WestJet is also stopping Cuba flights.
They are winding down operations this week.
Impact on Global Carriers
The fuel shortage affects many international routes.
Air Europa will refuel in the Dominican Republic.
This helps them avoid the local shortage.
US carriers are still flying to Havana.
American Airlines and Delta Air Lines carry extra fuel.
They do not need to refuel there.
This strategy is known as fuel tankering.
It allows them to keep flying safely.
Regulatory and Passenger Concerns
The Cuban government has not commented yet.
Travelers at the airport are very worried.
Many flights may face delays or changes.
The situation remains very fluid and uncertain.
According to the IATA, fuel is vital for safety.
Airlines must plan for these supply risks.
WestJet told pilots about the plan.
They want to return all customers home.
- Air Canada suspends flights until March 11.
- WestJet begins an orderly service wind-down.
- US carriers continue using fuel tankering methods.
- 3,000 passengers need help returning to Canada.
Access up-to-date commercial aviation news and airline industry developments via flying.flights. For airline finances, mergers, and industry strategy, visit the Business category at flying.flights/business.
Written by Ujjwal Sukhwani
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience. Covers flight operations, safety regulations, and market trends with expert analysis.
Visit ProfileYou Might Also Like
Discover more aviation news based on similar topics
Canadian Airlines Resume Puerto Vallarta Flights Amid Security Concerns
Canadian carriers resumed flights to Puerto Vallarta after a temporary suspension due to regional violence, though some travelers have altered their plans.
National Aviation Strike Set to Disrupt Italian Air Travel on Feb 26
A 24-hour national aviation strike in Italy on Feb 26 will cause widespread flight cancellations, with ITA Airways grounding 55% of its scheduled service.
Delta Launches First Nonstop JFK-Malta Flights for Summer 2026
Delta Air Lines will launch its first nonstop service from JFK to Malta in June 2026, supported by a new Delta Vacations program for the destination.
Winter Storm Cancels Over 11,000 Flights in U.S. Northeast
A major winter storm in the U.S. Northeast forced airlines to cancel over 11,000 flights, grounding operations at major hubs like Boston and New York.
IndiGo Launches Belagavi-Navi Mumbai Flights from March 29
IndiGo will launch daily flights between Belagavi and Navi Mumbai from March 29, restoring a key regional route previously served by Star Air.
Canadian Airlines Resume Mexico Flights After Regional Violence Subsides
Canadian carriers resume flights to Puerto Vallarta as over 61,000 citizens register with Global Affairs Canada amid regional safety concerns.