The renowned Cuban band Havana D'Primera publicly criticized Copa Airlines on Thursday through their social media platforms, highlighting the neglect they experienced after their flight from Panama to Havana was diverted to Jamaica due to severe weather conditions linked to Hurricane Helene.
Alexander Abreu, the leader of Havana D'Primera, expressed on Facebook that they had been stranded at the Jamaica airport for over 12 hours without any information, food, or support from Copa Airlines. "They put us on a flight they knew couldn't land in Havana because of the strong wind gusts," Abreu stated, voicing his frustration over the airline's lack of foresight.
"We're stuck in the Jamaica airport; Copa Airlines has really dropped the ball," the singer remarked, urging his followers to share the post to raise awareness and prompt a response from the airline.
Band's Ordeal in Jamaica
Earlier, the artist had posted a live video where he humorously remarked that Hurricane Helene had sent the band to Jamaica: "I think today marks the second anniversary of Havana D'Primera because we've literally been reborn." He also described the harrowing experience of almost crash-landing in Havana amidst the storm.
Abreu assured his followers, "We're okay, just waiting for the storm to subside and for another flight to be arranged." In another live video, a band member criticized Copa Airlines for not providing any updates on when they would be able to fly to Havana. "They treat us like we're nothing—not customers, not people, nothing," he lamented.
Safety Concerns and Lack of Communication
The band member also voiced his anger over the airline's lack of preparation, emphasizing that they were boarded in Panama despite the near-impossibility of landing in Cuba due to the weather conditions. "They knew we couldn't land in Cuba," he noted, highlighting the danger they were exposed to. "It was extremely risky; we almost lost our lives," he added, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Earlier this month, Abreu was unable to perform at his usual high standards during a Havana D'Primera concert in Cancun, Mexico, due to not feeling well physically. He apologized to the audience through the band's official Facebook page. However, in July, he gave an outstanding performance in Havana alongside El Micha at the Salsa Río Cuba restaurant.