The escalating conflict between the United States and Venezuela is beginning to have a direct impact on international tourism.
On Sunday, Russian tour operator PEGAS Touristik announced the cancellation of the Moscow–Porlamar flight scheduled for December 1st. The decision was made due to a "potential threat to the safety of civilian aircraft" in Venezuelan airspace.
Instead, travelers will be redirected to the Cuban resort of Varadero, as communicated by the company to its partner agencies.
"We inform you that the Moscow–Porlamar flight on December 1st has been canceled. A Moscow–Varadero flight is now scheduled," stated the company's announcement, released by the Russian Tour Operators Association (ATOR).
This decision comes just 24 hours after former U.S. President Donald Trump ordered a complete closure of Venezuelan airspace, citing national security concerns and anti-drug trafficking measures.
Since then, numerous international airlines have halted operations in the South American country, with Washington warning of the risks associated with flying in the region due to increased military activity.
Cuba as the "Alternative Destination"
Anna Podgornaya, General Director of PEGAS Touristik, has stated that all charter flights initially planned for Venezuela will temporarily be redirected to Varadero, the main tourist hub of the Cuban Caribbean.
Customers will have the option to stay in "similar or higher category" hotels, and those opting to cancel their vacations can retain their funds as a deposit for future trips.
"The resumption of the flight program to Venezuela is planned once the situation normalizes," Podgornaya noted. Meanwhile, Russian tourists currently vacationing on Margarita Island will be repatriated directly to Moscow via special flights operated by partner airlines.
Geopolitical and Economic Implications
This shift in tourist destinations occurs against a backdrop of regional tension, marked by U.S. military escalation, pressure on Nicolás Maduro's regime, and increasing diplomatic strains.
The movement of Venezuelan government aircraft towards the Brazilian border — as reported by CNN Brazil — has fueled speculation regarding potential escape plans or power realignment within the Chavista government.
Brazil has expressed concerns over the militarization of the Caribbean but remains neutral.
For Cuba, this rerouting of flights provides an immediate advantage: an unexpected boost in Russian tourism during peak season. However, it also underscores Cuba's role as a political and economic haven for strategic allies under Western sanctions.
As Venezuela becomes partially cut off from international air travel, Varadero emerges as the safe alternative, strengthening the island's position as the top recipient of Russian tourists in the Caribbean — and as a new collateral stage in the tension between Washington and Caracas.
FAQs on Russian Tourism Shift to Cuba
Why were the Moscow–Porlamar flights canceled?
The flights were canceled due to a potential threat to the safety of civilian aircraft in Venezuelan airspace, as announced by PEGAS Touristik.
What destination is replacing Venezuela for Russian tourists?
Russian tourists will be redirected to Varadero, Cuba, as the alternative destination.
How is this situation affecting Cuba?
Cuba is experiencing an unexpected increase in Russian tourism, benefiting economically from the rerouted flights during its high season.