On Monday, Iberia announced a relaxation of conditions for customers who have already purchased tickets to Cuba and wish to make voluntary changes to their travel plans.
The Spanish airline is the first to respond to the severe aviation fuel shortage in Cuba, which was confirmed on Sunday through an international aeronautical notice (NOTAM).
The Cuban government's warning indicates that nine international airports, including Havana's, will lack Jet A-1 fuel for a full month, from February 10 to at least March 11, 2026.
In light of this situation, Iberia provided several options for passengers with Cuba-bound tickets, as reported by El País. These options include:
- Rescheduling the flight
- Changing the destination to a nearby location
- Receiving a refund via a voucher
- Obtaining a refund through the original payment method
Despite these adjustments, Iberia emphasized that they do not currently anticipate any changes to their usual operations between Madrid and Cuba.
"At present, there is no confirmation that this situation will lead to modifications or cancellations of operations between Madrid and Cuba," stated the airline, which assured it is continuously monitoring the issue to take necessary actions if the situation worsens.
This decision follows the issuance of NOTAM A0356/26, confirming the unavailability of Jet A-1 fuel at the international airports in Havana, Varadero, Holguín, Santa Clara, Camagüey, Cayo Coco, Cienfuegos, Santiago de Cuba, and Manzanillo.
The notice establishes an operational limitation recognized in international aviation systems, compelling airlines to fly with additional fuel, make technical stops outside the island, or incur higher operational costs.
The shortage of fuel at Cuban airports is linked to the cessation of oil supplies from Venezuela, the island's main supplier, following the United States' military intervention in early January, as well as the cancellation of shipments from Mexico.
This issue is part of a broader energy crisis affecting key sectors of Cuba's economy, adding uncertainty to the country's international air connectivity.
Impact of Fuel Shortage on Cuba's Aviation
How is Iberia accommodating travelers affected by the fuel shortage in Cuba?
Iberia is offering options such as rescheduling flights, changing destinations to nearby locations, and providing refunds either through vouchers or the original payment method.
What are the causes of the fuel shortage at Cuban airports?
The fuel shortage is primarily due to the halt of oil supplies from Venezuela, Cuba's main supplier, after the U.S. military intervention, alongside the cancellation of oil shipments from Mexico.
Which airports are affected by the lack of Jet A-1 fuel in Cuba?
The affected airports include those in Havana, Varadero, Holguín, Santa Clara, Camagüey, Cayo Coco, Cienfuegos, Santiago de Cuba, and Manzanillo.