In a bold attempt to enhance its aviation infrastructure, the Cuban government has unveiled plans for a significant upgrade of its primary international airports, a development initiative projected to last until 2030, according to an official from the Ministry of Transportation (MITRANS). The ambitious plan includes expanding and refurbishing Terminal 3 at Havana's José Martí International Airport, the nation’s main air hub. These upgrades aim to boost passenger handling capacity by 30%, as stated by Joel Archer Santos, president of the Cuban Aviation Corporation (CAC).
Moreover, enhancements are planned for Terminal 2 to ensure greater capacity for both passengers and airlines, particularly in anticipation of increased operational demands.
Revamping Regional Airports
Joel Archer highlighted the completed refurbishments at Jardines del Rey and Cayo Largo del Sur airports, situated in the central region of Cuba. These facilities were upgraded ahead of the tourist season and the 2024 International Tourism Fair, with Cayo Largo’s airport almost entirely renovated, according to the official.
In the west, Varadero’s Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport underwent repairs last year. Currently, efforts are concentrated on the eastern terminals of Camagüey and Holguín, focusing on improving air conditioning and other passenger amenities. Looking ahead, Archer mentioned potential investments for renovating Santiago de Cuba’s airport by 2025. Additionally, runway enhancements across nearly all these airports, including Isla de la Juventud, are being implemented to bolster operational safety.
“All these airports meet the necessary safety standards for secure operations. Our goal is to restore conditions to support increased activities and ensure efficient service for airlines,” Archer concluded optimistically.
Decline in Flights and Tourism to Cuba
Despite the planned airport modernization, Cuban airports have faced significant shortcomings recently, impacting traveler experiences. José Martí International Airport, in particular, has been criticized for having Terminal 3 without air conditioning for two months, exacerbating the discomfort of long passenger waits amid heat and humidity.
In 2024, Cuba experienced numerous flight cancellations by international airlines, leading to a marked decline in the island's air connectivity. Early in the year, Aerolíneas Argentinas announced the cessation of its routes to Havana. In mid-June, Colombian airline Avianca revealed the suspension of its planned Bogotá-Havana flights, initially set to commence on July 2. Also in June, Boliviana de Aviación (BoA) declared the discontinuation of its Santa Cruz de la Sierra-Havana route from July 25, 2024, after only nine months of operation. Swiss airline Edelweiss Air announced the termination of its flights to Cuba from March, dealing another blow to the island’s tourism sector, already struggling with a significant drop in international visitors.
Furthermore, German carrier Condor withdrew its services, ending the only direct connection with Germany. A recent preliminary report by the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI) highlighted concerning data about the tourism sector’s performance in 2024, underscoring a bleak outlook for one of Cuba’s primary revenue sources. According to released figures, international visitor numbers fell short of expectations, showing a decline compared to previous years.
By November 2024, Cuba welcomed 2,719,259 travelers, which is 95.2% of the total recorded during the same period in 2022, translating to 137,047 fewer visitors. Of these, international tourists amounted to 2,005,390, marking a 92.1% decrease from the previous year, equating to 172,451 fewer international arrivals.
Impact of Airport Modernization on Tourism in Cuba
What are the main changes planned for Havana’s José Martí International Airport?
The main changes include expanding and refurbishing Terminal 3, which aims to enhance passenger capacity by 30%.
How are regional airports being improved?
Regional airports like Jardines del Rey and Cayo Largo del Sur have undergone renovations, while Camagüey and Holguín are focusing on improving passenger conditions.
What impact has the decline in flights had on Cuba?
The decline in flights has significantly reduced Cuba's air connectivity, affecting tourism and leading to fewer international visitors.
Which airlines have recently stopped flying to Cuba?
Recent airlines that have ceased operations to Cuba include Aerolíneas Argentinas, Avianca, Boliviana de Aviación (BoA), Edelweiss Air, and Condor.