Core Viewpoint - Canadian airlines have suspended flights to Cuba due to a jet fuel shortage caused by U.S. restrictions on oil supplies from Venezuela, impacting operations and travel plans for many passengers [1][10]. Group 1: Airline Operations - Air Canada, the largest carrier in Canada, announced that aviation fuel will not be available at Cuban airports starting Tuesday, leading to flight cancellations [1]. - Smaller airlines, including WestJet and Air Transat, have also canceled flights due to anticipated fuel shortages, with Air Transat suspending all flights to Cuba until the end of April [2][6]. - WestJet has initiated a wind-down of its Cuban operations and is organizing flights to assist customers returning to Canada [6]. Group 2: Fuel Supply Issues - The Cuban Aviation Corporation (ECNA) did not acknowledge the fuel shortage or flight cancellations in its statement, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining aviation safety and reliability [3]. - Air Europa plans to make refueling stops in the Dominican Republic due to the fuel restrictions, indicating that fuel shortfalls are a recurring issue for airlines operating in Cuba [4]. - Historically, Cuba has relied on Venezuela for jet fuel, but since mid-December, it has not received any fuel from Venezuela due to U.S. sanctions [10][11]. Group 3: Impact on Travelers - Travelers in Cuba expressed concern over the flight cancellations and fuel shortages, indicating that the situation is causing anxiety among families and passengers [6][7]. - Despite the issues faced by Canadian airlines, U.S. carriers such as American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Delta Air Lines continue to operate flights to Cuba without current disruptions [8].
Canadian Airlines Suspend Cuba Flights as Island Set to Run Out of Jet Fuel