The Antonio Maceo Grajales International Airport in Santiago de Cuba has announced a bidding process for outdoor spaces, aiming to enhance its dining services for both passengers and staff.
This announcement, shared on the airport's official Facebook page and reported by Sierra Maestra, invites self-employed workers, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and state entities to participate.
Applications must be submitted directly to the airport's management, and interested parties can obtain further details by contacting the commercial specialist at the following numbers: 22698684, 52095207, and 53685543, or via email at newton@scu.ecasa.avianet.cu.
Public response on social media has largely been skeptical. Many users questioned the business's feasibility due to low air traffic: "Why bother if there are no flights," one commenter stated bluntly.
Others criticized price control issues. "The idea is good, but if prices are set based on fuel costs like rental cars, passengers won't even afford a snack there. Please impose limits on dining contracts," one user remarked.
Another echoed similar sentiments: "Great idea, but if a simple loaf of bread costs up to 1,500 pesos."
Concerns about the transparency of the process also emerged. "The spaces already have names and faces. I want to do business in Cuba, but they are making it extremely difficult," a participant expressed.
Similarly, another online user demanded a public list of applicants and the final selection: "All the spaces have been allocated already. That's not fair. Prices don't matter; profits do."
Despite the criticism, some supported the initiative with caution: "Let it be an improvement and take it easy with the prices," one user suggested, while another summarized pragmatically: "It's almost better to bring your own."
This isn't the first time the Santiago airport has used this approach. In March 2023, a similar bidding process for outdoor dining spaces was launched, targeting the same groups, with unclear results from that call.
The initiative aligns with a broader trend by the Cuban Airports and Aeronautical Services Company (ECASA) to generate alternative revenue through leasing.
In June, the Varadero airport leased its fuel tanks, followed by office space rentals at the same location.
However, this announcement comes amid a challenging period for Cuban aviation. Since February 10, the country's nine international airports have lacked Jet A-1 fuel, resulting in over 1,700 flight cancellations and the withdrawal of at least 11 airlines, including Air Canada, Iberia, and Turkish Airlines.
In August 2026, Antonio Maceo airport recorded just 67 monthly arrivals, operated by airlines such as American Airlines, Cubana, InterCaribbean Airways, and Rutaca.
FAQs on Santiago de Cuba Airport's Gastronomy Expansion
Who can apply for the bidding process at Santiago de Cuba Airport?
The bidding is open to self-employed workers, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and state entities.
What are the concerns about the new dining initiative at the airport?
Concerns include skepticism about business feasibility due to low flight traffic and issues with high pricing that may deter customers.
How does this initiative fit into ECASA's broader strategy?
This initiative is part of a larger effort by ECASA to diversify income through leasing various airport resources.