Travelers flying with Air Europa between Spain and Cuba will now face new baggage restrictions, as the airline has limited the allowance to just one additional checked bag beyond what the ticket includes. This policy change affects flights to Havana specifically, while other routes remain unaffected.
This unexpected move, detailed on the airline's official website, has caught many passengers and travel agencies off guard. Several travelers arrived at Madrid-Barajas and Tenerife North airports with multiple extra bags, only to be informed at check-in that they could not board them.
One passenger expressed frustration, stating the policy was enforced "without prior notice," leaving dozens of travelers to abandon some of their luggage at the airport.
"They only allow one extra bag in addition to the one included with the ticket. This has resulted in numerous passengers and their baggage being left at the airports of Madrid and Tenerife when heading to Havana," explained the traveler.
Reasons Behind the Restriction
According to passenger reports, Air Europa justified this measure as necessary to carry more fuel and avoid additional stops on the return flight. This explanation aligns with the ongoing aviation fuel shortage in Cuba. Since February, several NOTAMs have warned about the lack of Jet A-1 fuel at various Cuban airports, including José Martí International Airport in Havana.
Consequently, starting June 13, Air Europa implemented a technical stop in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, to refuel before continuing to Madrid. Reducing the transported weight allows for more fuel to be carried, enhancing the aircraft's range.
Impact on Passengers
The new baggage limitation applies to all fare types. Economy Lite passengers still have no checked baggage allowance; those with Economy Standard or Economy Flex can check one bag up to 23 kilograms; and Business Class travelers retain two pieces, each up to 32 kilograms. However, on the Havana route, only one additional bag can be added, regardless of fare. SUMA Silver, Gold, and Platinum members, along with SkyTeam's Elite and Elite Plus customers, continue to enjoy exemptions for the first extra piece.
This restriction hits particularly hard for Cubans residing in Spain, who often use their trips to transport essentials like food, medicine, and clothing to family members on the island, given the country's severe shortages.
Flight Availability and Pricing Concerns
The impact of this policy is exacerbated by the limited flight options between Spain and Cuba. Since Iberia suspended its Madrid-Havana route on June 1 and World2Fly ceased operations on May 20, Air Europa remains the only Spanish airline offering direct flights between the two countries.
This reduction in flight availability has also driven up ticket prices. In July, round-trip fares between Madrid and Havana often exceed €1,200, while one-way tickets can surpass €800.
Although Air Europa recently announced plans to increase its weekly flights to Havana to four, the airline cautioned that its schedule might change from November, depending on operational conditions along the route.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Europa's Baggage Policy to Cuba
Why has Air Europa limited baggage on flights to Cuba?
Air Europa has restricted baggage on flights to Cuba to carry more fuel and avoid additional stops on the return journey, addressing the aviation fuel shortage in Cuba.
How does the new baggage policy affect different fare types?
The policy applies to all fare types, allowing only one additional bag regardless of fare. Economy Lite passengers have no checked baggage, while Economy Standard and Flex can check one 23 kg bag, and Business Class retains two 32 kg pieces.
What are the consequences for Cuban residents in Spain?
The restriction is particularly challenging for Cuban residents in Spain, who often transport essential goods to family members due to Cuba's shortages, making it difficult to carry everything needed in one trip.
What are the current flight options between Spain and Cuba?
With Iberia and World2Fly no longer operating routes, Air Europa is the sole Spanish airline offering direct flights between Spain and Cuba.