Cuba Extends Fuel Alert for Ten Airports Amid Aviation Woes

What Happened

A significant fuel shortage for aircraft continues to affect operations in Cuba. Ten Cuban airports are currently under a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) alert, indicating the unavailability of Jet A-1 fuel.

This restriction has been extended, with the latest notices setting a new deadline of November 1, 2026, for the unavailability of this crucial aviation fuel.

Where and When

The fuel unavailability affects ten international terminals across the island. These include major airports like José Martí in Havana and Juan Gualberto Gómez in Varadero.

Other impacted airports are Jaime González (Cienfuegos), Abel Santamaría (Santa Clara), Ignacio Agramonte (Camagüey), Jardines del Rey (Cayo Coco), Frank País (Holguín), and Antonio Maceo (Santiago de Cuba).

Additionally, the airports in Manzanillo and Cayo Largo are also included in this restriction.

Why It Matters

This ongoing fuel crisis directly impacts commercial aviation, forcing airlines to significantly alter their flight plans and operational strategies.

It leads to increased travel times, potential delays, and higher operational costs for airlines, which can ultimately affect ticket prices and passenger experience.

What Parties Say

Official notices from the Empresa Cubana de Navegación Aérea (ECNA) have been issuing these warnings. The NOTAMs, coded A3459 to A3468/26, replaced earlier advisories.

Airlines like Air Canada suspended services earlier in the year, while others, such as Spain's Iberia, have extended flight suspensions to Havana until June 2027 due to these operational challenges.

What Comes Next

Passengers with upcoming travel to Cuba are strongly advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest updates on flight schedules, potential layovers, and any itinerary changes.

While the current alert is set for November 1, 2026, it is possible that further extensions or modifications to this date could be announced by the ECNA.