Air Canada has suspended all flights to Cuba effective Monday, citing a critical fuel shortage that has disrupted operations. The airline plans to operate empty return flights over the following days to retrieve approximately 3,000 Canadian passengers currently stranded in the Caribbean nation.

This sudden suspension highlights the growing impact of fuel supply disruptions on international aviation routes. Cuba has faced ongoing fuel shortages due to economic sanctions and logistical challenges, forcing airlines to reassess their Caribbean operations. Air Canada, as Canada's largest carrier, has been a significant operator on the Toronto-Havana route, serving both leisure and business travelers.

The suspension affects thousands of passengers who had booked winter travel packages to Cuba's popular beach destinations. Air Canada will work with affected customers to arrange alternative transportation or provide refunds, though the airline has not specified the timeline for resuming service. Industry analysts note this disruption could benefit competing carriers who maintain fuel reserves or operate different routes to the island.

Quick Fact: Air Canada will operate empty flights to retrieve about 3,000 stranded passengers.