As of October 11, the Cuban Air Navigation Company (ECNA) has announced that ten of Cuba's international airports will continue to face a shortage of Jet A-1 fuel until 04:00 UTC on November 1, 2026. This shortage impacts aircraft refueling capabilities but does not result in terminal closures or the cancellation of all flights.
Notification of Fuel Unavailability
The official series A3459 to A3468/26 of aviation notices includes the message "JET A1 FUEL NOT AVBL," indicating that Jet A-1 fuel is not available. These ten NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) were initially effective from September 30, between 00:31 and 00:34 UTC, replacing the previous notices A3054 to A3063/26.
Airports Affected by the Fuel Shortage
The list of impacted airports, identified by their airport code and associated notice, is as follows:
- Havana: José Martí Airport, MUHA — A3459/26
- Varadero: Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport, MUVR — A3460/26
- Cienfuegos: Jaime González Airport, MUCF — A3461/26
- Santa Clara: Abel Santamaría Airport, MUSC — A3462/26
- Camagüey: Ignacio Agramonte Airport, MUCM — A3463/26
- Cayo Coco: Jardines del Rey Airport, MUCC — A3464/26
- Holguín: Frank País Airport, MUHG — A3465/26
- Santiago de Cuba: Antonio Maceo Airport, MUCU — A3466/26
- Manzanillo: Sierra Maestra Airport, MUMZ — A3467/26
- Cayo Largo: Vilo Acuña Airport, MUCL — A3468/26
All notices have a uniform end date of November 1 at 04:00 UTC.
Extension Without Assurance of Fuel Supply Restoration
The previous series indicated an end date of October 1. The updated documents, effective from September 30, extend this alert through October. On October 4, it was noted that passing the previous deadline did not confirm the resumption of fuel supply, although a new series had not yet been verified. Notices A3459 to A3468/26 confirm that the restriction was renewed before the anticipated expiration date.
November 1 is not a guarantee of supply normalization. It is merely the final date listed in these operational notices, which could be replaced or rescinded. Updated information from the airport or airline is necessary to confirm the restoration of services.
Advice for Travelers Heading to Cuba
The ground fuel shortage does not automatically halt all operations. Airlines have the option to load extra fuel at the departure airport or make technical stops in other countries, strategies some airlines have employed to continue flights without relying on Cuban refueling.
On February 9, Air Canada stated that it would carry additional fuel and, when necessary, make stops to refuel on the return journey. These measures were part of their operations to retrieve customers from the island after announcing the suspension of their service.
For travelers from Florida, Spain, and other regions, the ten NOTAMs do not specify particular flight cancellations or schedule changes. It's essential to verify the status of each itinerary with the operating airline.
Before heading to the airport, travelers should confirm that their flight is still scheduled, check for any refueling stops, and note any changes in arrival times or subsequent connections. It's also wise to verify return flight details.
Key Information on Cuban Airport Fuel Shortage
What is the impact of the Jet A-1 fuel shortage in Cuba?
The shortage affects the refueling capabilities of aircraft at ten Cuban airports but does not lead to terminal closures or complete flight cancellations.
Until when is the fuel shortage expected to last?
The current notices indicate the fuel shortage will last until November 1, 2026, at 04:00 UTC, although this date could be subject to change.
How can airlines cope with the fuel shortage in Cuba?
Airlines can load extra fuel at their origin or make technical stops in other countries to manage the fuel shortage while operating flights to and from Cuba.