In recent times, Cuba has faced significant challenges as its access to essential resources dwindles. Amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, the island nation’s energy crisis intensifies, impacting its aviation sector and tourism industry.
Cuban Aviation Faces Fuel Shortage
Havana — Cuban aviation authorities have alerted airlines that fuel shortages will hinder airplane refueling across the island. This latest measure is part of broader efforts to ration energy as the Trump administration restricts the Caribbean country’s access to its fuel resources.
The Cuban government issued notices to airlines and pilots on Sunday night, stating that jet fuel will not be available at nine airports, including José Martí International Airport in Havana, from Tuesday until March 11.
Political pressure from President Trump on Latin America has effectively severed Cuba’s connections to its main petroleum suppliers in Venezuela and Mexico. In late January, Mr. Trump signed an executive order imposing tariffs on goods from nations that sell or provide oil to Cuba, potentially further crippling an island already grappling with an energy crisis.
The order primarily targets Mexico, which has served as an oil lifeline for Cuba while maintaining a diplomatic relationship with the U.S., despite President Claudia Sheinbaum’s efforts to cultivate ties with Mr. Trump.
Initially, there were speculations that Mexico might reduce oil shipments to Cuba due to Mr. Trump’s pressure. However, on Monday, Sheinbaum announced her country would increase assistance to Cuba and described Mr. Trump’s policies as unjust.
Sheinbaum emphasized, “There will be more support for Cuba,” announcing the loading of over 800 tons of humanitarian aid onto Mexican Navy ships headed for the island. She also stated that diplomatic measures were being taken to restore oil shipments.
“No one can ignore the plight of the Cuban people due to the sanctions imposed by the United States on any country that sends oil, which is fundamentally unjust,” Sheinbaum remarked to reporters.
A spokesperson for China, a country with close ties to Cuba, expressed support for Cuba’s sovereignty and stated that Beijing would continually assist Cuba to the best of its abilities.
Airlines Adjust to Fuel Shortages in Cuba
While the fuel rationing may not significantly hinder shorter regional flights, it poses a considerable challenge for long-haul routes from countries like Russia and Canada, which are vital to Cuba’s tourism industry.
On Monday, Air Canada announced the suspension of flights to Cuba, while other airlines reported delays and layovers in the Dominican Republic before reaching Havana.
A pilot noted that while fuel shortages are not uncommon, the scale of this official announcement is unprecedented for an island accustomed to crises. He recalled that during similar occurrences over a decade ago, flights bound for Europe refueled in Nassau, Bahamas. Currently, regional airlines may avoid complications by bringing additional fuel, while others could refuel in Cancun or the Dominican Republic.
In a conversation with CBS News, Delta Air Lines stated it was not aware of issues stemming from the fuel shortages. Southwest Airlines confirmed that it requires its aircraft flying to Cuba to carry enough fuel to reach their next destination.
“Due to the current status of aviation fuel in Cuba, Southwest Airlines is requiring aircraft that fly to Havana to carry sufficient fuel for the next leg of their journeys,” a spokesperson stated on Monday. The airline operates one daily flight to Havana.
American Airlines indicated it is closely monitoring the situation, as reported by the Miami Herald.
The duration of the fuel notice remains uncertain, and Cuban officials have not publicly commented on the situation.
This fuel shortage further impacts a country reliant on tourism, an industry that once generated $3 billion annually and served as a crucial economic lifeline.
Energy Crisis Beyond Aviation
Cuban authorities also announced on Monday a reduction in bank hours and a suspension of cultural events. The public bus system in Havana has largely come to a standstill, leaving residents stranded amidst persistent power outages and enduring fuel shortages.
The energy crisis has halted significant events, including the Havana International Book Fair, and has prompted a restructuring of the national baseball season for efficiency. Some banks reduced operating hours and fuel distribution companies stopped selling gas in Cuban pesos, now offering sales in dollars limited to about 5 gallons per customer.
These recent measures add to a series of actions announced last Friday, which included cuts to bus transportation and limited train services.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel delivered a two-hour televised address on Thursday, acknowledging the impact of the crisis and announcing forthcoming measures.
U.S. sanctions have been in place against Cuba for over six decades and have long hindered its economy. However, these restrictions intensified after a U.S. military action led to the ousting of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, prompting Mr. Trump’s more aggressive stance toward Latin America.
For many Cubans, this crisis has resulted in power outages lasting up to 10 hours, fuel shortages for vehicles, and a significant lack of food and medicine, drawing parallels to the severe economic depression known as the Special Period that followed aid cuts from the Soviet Union.
Key Takeaways
- Cuba faces major jet fuel shortages affecting nine airports due to new government restrictions.
- President Trump’s policies have intensified Cuba’s energy crisis by limiting access to oil.
- Airlines are adjusting operations, with some flights suspended and others refueling in alternative locations.
- The fuel crisis is crippling tourism, a vital economic sector for Cuba.
- Banking hours are reduced, and cultural events are being suspended amid ongoing energy shortages.
- Public transportation has come to a halt in Havana, further impacting daily life for residents.
FAQ
What airports in Cuba are affected by the fuel shortage?
Nine airports, including José Martí International Airport in Havana, will not have jet fuel available.
How are airlines responding to the fuel crisis?
Airlines are adjusting their operations, including suspending flights, increasing layovers, and requiring extra fuel for flights to Cuba.
What is the impact of the fuel shortage on tourism in Cuba?
The fuel shortage poses a significant challenge for the tourism industry, which is crucial for Cuba’s economy.
What measures has Cuba taken in response to this crisis?
Cuba has reduced banking hours, suspended cultural events, and altered transportation services due to the ongoing energy crisis.
