Flight Disruptions Tied to Cuba’s Fuel Crisis
Russia will temporarily halt flights to Cuba after airlines said they cannot reliably refuel aircraft on the island, aviation authorities announced. The Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsia) confirmed that both Rossiya Airlines, part of the Aeroflot Group, and Nordwind Airlines have adjusted their schedules because of difficulties securing jet fuel in Cuba.
Rather than flying both ways, the carriers will operate only return flights from Havana and Varadero to Moscow over the next several days. These outbound-only flights will bring Russian tourists home before regular service stops. The suspension is expected to last until conditions improve, with authorities saying the decision was made “in the interests of passengers.”
Fuel Shortages Impacting Cuban Aviation
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) warning pilots that Jet A-1 fuel will be unavailable at nine Cuban airports — including Havana’s José Martí International — through at least March 11. This has effectively prevented inbound flights from refueling on the island.
The situation has also forced other carriers, such as Canada’s national airline, to suspend or reroute flights, fueling concerns about broader impacts on tourism and travel.
Ties to U.S. Policy and Sanctions
The disruptions come amid heightened U.S. pressure on Cuba’s energy supply. Two weeks ago, President Donald Trump declared a national emergency involving Cuba and authorized measures aimed at cutting off the island’s oil and fuel imports. An executive order on January 29 gives the administration power to impose tariffs on imports from countries that send oil to Havana. U.S. officials have described the policy as “zero tolerance” toward the Cuban government.
The loss of regular oil shipments — historically sourced from Venezuela and Mexico — has deepened Cuba’s fuel shortage. The crisis has led to rolling blackouts, transportation cuts and severely strained airline operations.
Russia Plans Humanitarian Aid Amid Tensions
In response to the growing fuel emergency, Russia has signaled plans to send crude oil and refined petroleum products to Cuba as humanitarian assistance, according to the Russian Embassy in Havana. Talks are ongoing with Cuban aviation and government officials to support safe repatriation of Russian citizens and explore ways to assist the island during the crisis.
