Air Canada Suspended All Fights to Cuba

Brian Teepell/USPA 24 News - Air Canada has suspended all flights to Cuba, effective immediately, due to a severe aviation fuel shortage across the island that is anticipated to deteriorate.

The airline intends to operate empty southbound flights in the next few days to retrieve around 3,000 travellers currently in Cuba, while taking on extra fuel and making technical stops if necessary to complete return trips safely.

The shortage is partly attributed to Cuba's dependence on Venezuelan fuel supplies, which have been restricted since mid-December due to U.S. restrictions on Venezuelan exports.

Travellers should remain in close communication with their airline and keep abreast of travel updates from Global Affairs Canada as the situation evolves.

Cuba has been grappling with chronic fuel shortages in recent months, and officials have verified that jet fuel will no longer be accessible as of Tuesday, February 10th, significantly disrupting airport operations and affecting both domestic and international air carriers.

In light of Canada's updated travel advisory regarding Cuba's worsening shortages of fuel, electricity, and basic necessities, WestJet and Air Transat have confirmed that they are operating flights using contingency measures, which may be subject to disruption at short notice.

Air Canada is launching flexible rebooking and automatic refund policies for affected customers, including those booked through Air Canada Vacations, who will receive support and assistance from local representatives.