Cuban aviation authorities have revoked earlier notifications concerning a shortage of aviation fuel, ensuring that the flight schedule between Russia and Cuba remains uninterrupted. This update was released on Sunday by the Russian Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsiya) and was reported by Russian media.
According to Rosaviatsiya, the NOTAM—notices to airmen—indicating fuel shortages at Havana and Varadero airports, initially set for December 1-8, are no longer active. "The flight schedule between Russia and Cuba will proceed as initially planned," the statement assures, without detailing how Cuba resolved the issue.
Monitoring and Stabilizing Air Traffic
The information highlights that the Russian Federal Air Transport Agency, in collaboration with the Russian Ministry of Transport, will continue to closely observe the air traffic situation between the two nations to protect airline and passenger interests.
Rosaviatsiya's representative, Artem Korenyako, confirmed on his Telegram channel that flights will operate according to the original schedule. However, he had previously warned that the NOTAM from Cuban authorities might necessitate adjustments due to the absence of JET-A1 aviation fuel.
As of this report's publication, only Telesur has echoed the cancellation notice, with no acknowledgment from Cuba's official press, which never reported the initial warning. The announcement was made through a post on X by the Russian Embassy in Cuba and Cuban aviation Facebook groups.
Air Operations and Airlines Involved
The flights between Russia and Cuba are managed by Rossiya Airlines (part of the Aeroflot Group) and Nordwind Airlines. Aeroflot stated that its December 1 flight to Havana proceeded as scheduled, with any potential changes to be communicated to passengers.
Meanwhile, Nordwind confirmed it was awaiting official confirmation of fuel resupply at the Varadero airport to operate the Varadero-Sheremetyevo route. A recent incident saw a Moscow-Varadero flight delayed at Sheremetyevo due to these circumstances.
Tourism remains a significant revenue stream for Cuba, with Russia ranking third among the countries with the most visitors to the island nation, accounting for 185,000 Russian tourists so far this year—an 8% increase from the previous year.
Simultaneously, Russia has extended substantial aid to Cuba, including the delivery of 80,000 tons of diesel fuel valued at $60 million, in the aftermath of the damage caused by hurricanes Oscar and Rafael.
Common Questions About Fuel Shortages and Russia-Cuba Flights
How did Cuba resolve the aviation fuel shortage issue?
The specific details on how Cuba resolved the aviation fuel shortage have not been disclosed by the authorities.
Are flights between Russia and Cuba operating normally now?
Yes, flights between Russia and Cuba are operating as per the original schedule, following the cancellation of the fuel shortage notice.
Which airlines are involved in Russia-Cuba flights?
The airlines involved in flights between Russia and Cuba include Rossiya Airlines, part of the Aeroflot Group, and Nordwind Airlines.
Has the Cuban press reported on the fuel shortage issue?
No, the Cuban official press has not reported on the previous fuel shortage notice.