This Friday, a Boeing 787-9 from Air China landed in Cuba carrying 116 passengers, marking the resumption of flights between Havana and Beijing. The flight, which included a technical stop in Madrid, was greeted with extensive media coverage at José Martí International Airport.
Present at the welcoming ceremony were Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz, Minister of Transportation Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, and Tourism Minister Juan Carlos García Granda. The flight is scheduled to operate twice weekly—Tuesdays and Fridays—during this initial phase. However, Zhang Xin, Air China’s representative in Cuba, told Cubadebate that an increase in frequency is anticipated in the future.
“They’ve arrived to stay,” said Manuel Marrero Cruz, describing the resumption of flights between the two nations as a dream come true. In his welcoming speech, he thanked Chinese President Xi Jinping and emphasized that this air connection is not an isolated action but a sign of the strengthening historical ties between both countries.
“I appreciate all the cooperation from China during these times. This connection will facilitate government and tourist exchanges. We will also work to ensure that the visa-free policy yields results and promotes these exchanges. The next International Tourism Fair will be dedicated to China,” he elaborated.
He also underscored that the new flight signifies a new era, demonstrating that Cuba is not alone.
Juan Carlos García Granda, Cuba’s tourism minister, announced that Presidential Decree 821 was published yesterday in the Official Gazette, formalizing the visa exemption for Chinese citizens, thereby facilitating their visits to the island.
“This is a historic moment for commercial relations between both countries, opening up limitless possibilities and laying the groundwork for multi-destination travel. Cuba offers culture, history, heritage, events, health tourism, among other attractions,” he specified.
Although "sun and beach tourism" predominates in the island—which may not be of primary interest to Chinese tourists—the Ministry of Tourism has designed special offers linked to historical, heritage, and cultural themes. Tailored products and programs have been developed, featuring routes like Viñales, the tobacco route, Trinidad, and Havana as a "Wonder City".
García Granda also expressed interest in expanding tourism ties with the introduction of new tour operators and online travel agencies. He previewed efforts to implement a Union Pay system through Fincimex in the coming months, which will facilitate transactions for Chinese visitors and enhance their travel experience.
Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, Cuba’s transportation minister, commented on witnessing the opening of a new chapter in aerial connectivity between the People’s Republic of China and Caribbean and Latin American countries.
“The national airline, with its significant and identifiable red phoenix logo, symbolizes good omens, peace, happiness, and a sincere occasion to serve society. At the same time, it demonstrates its strength and capacity to ensure the safety of operations,” he noted.
He recalled that in 2015, this airline was authorized to conduct regular passenger, cargo, and mail operations between Cuba and China. That same year, its commercial office was established in Havana.
Rodríguez Dávila added that the Beijing-Madrid-Havana route is not only an excellent opportunity to connect the countries involved but also other Asian and European countries served by this prestigious airline.
The cost of a one-way trip from Havana to Madrid is $406 USD, while the round-trip price is $602 USD, both including hand luggage and two free checked bags, making it highly competitive compared to other airlines.
For the Havana to Beijing flight, the one-way fare is $812 USD, with one hand luggage and one checked bag included. The round-trip fare from Havana to Beijing is $1350 USD, also including hand luggage and one free checked bag.
Air China has been operating in Cuba since 2015, but its services were suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Resumption of Beijing-Havana Flights: Key Details
With the recent resumption of flights between Beijing and Havana, there are several key points and frequently asked questions that travelers might have. Below are some of the most relevant queries answered.
What is the frequency of the Beijing-Havana flights?
Initially, the flights will operate twice a week, on Tuesdays and Fridays, with plans to increase frequency in the future.
Are there any visa requirements for Chinese citizens traveling to Cuba?
No, a recent presidential decree has formalized the visa exemption for Chinese citizens, making it easier for them to visit Cuba.
What are the costs for flights between Havana and Beijing?
A one-way trip from Havana to Beijing costs $812 USD, and a round-trip fare is $1350 USD. Both fares include hand luggage and one free checked bag.