Russia has announced a temporary suspension of flights to Cuba, citing difficulties in refueling aircraft on the island, according to aviation authorities on Wednesday.
The Federal Air Transport Agency of Russia, known as Rosaviasia, mentioned on Telegram that both Aeroflot and Nordwind Airlines have been compelled to revise their flight schedules due to fuel supply issues in Cuba.
In the next few days, Russian Airlines will conduct several outbound flights from Havana and Varadero to Moscow to repatriate Russian tourists before halting regular services. Once these flights are completed, the Cuba operations will be paused until the situation gets better, a decision the agency described as “in the interests of passengers.”
The Ministry of Transport, alongside Rosaviasia, stated they are in close communication with their Cuban counterparts and exploring alternatives for resuming two-way flights.
This announcement follows President Trump’s recent declaration of a national emergency concerning Cuba, along with new actions aimed at restricting the island’s oil resources.
In an executive order issued on January 29, Trump labeled Cuba as an “extraordinary threat” to U.S. national security. The order allows his administration to impose tariffs on any nation providing oil to Cuba, effective from January 30. This move is part of a broader “zero tolerance” stance towards the Cuban government.
An official alert known as a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was issued on February 10, warning pilots of fuel unavailability at nine Cuban airports. It’s noted that Jet A-1 fuel is not accessible, according to the FAA.
The advisory affects various airports, including Havana, Varadero, Cienfuegos, Santa Clara, and others, and remains in place until March 11.
