Fuel Shortage in Cuba Disrupts Flights and Prompts Canada Travel Advisory

A critical fuel shortage in Cuba is significantly disrupting tourism and air travel, prompting Canada’s Global Affairs department to update its travel advisory and urging travellers to be cautious due to worsening conditions on the Caribbean island.

Cuban authorities have warned that aviation fuel supplies, particularly Jet A-1 fuel needed for commercial flights, are nearly exhausted, with airports including Havana’s José Martí International Airport expected to run out and be unable to refuel aircraft. This has forced major carriers to adjust operations.

In response to the shortage, Air Canada has suspended all flights to Cuba, effective immediately, and is operating “empty” southbound flights to repatriate about 3,000 passengers currently in the country. Other airlines such as WestJet, Sunwing and Air Transat have also suspended or altered services due to the fuel crisis.

The fuel shortfall is part of a broader energy crisis that has affected Cuba’s tourism and transportation sectors. The Canadian government’s travel advisory now recommends that travellers exercise a high degree of caution when planning trips to Cuba, as shortages may lead to flight delays, cancellations and disruptions to resort services.

The aviation fuel shortage has taken a toll on Cuba’s key tourism industry — once a major source of foreign income — and reflects wider economic stresses on the island linked to limited fuel supplies and infrastructure challenges. The duration of the fuel shortage remains uncertain, with officials projecting it could persist for weeks into March 2026.