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Cuba Oil Crisis Grounds U.S. Airlines, Disrupts Caribbean Travel

Yahoo Finance •
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Cuba has suspended oil supplies to foreign airlines for one month, starting February 9, 2026, forcing carriers to find alternative refueling options in the Caribbean. The move comes amid an escalating energy crisis following the U.S. cutoff of Venezuelan oil supplies after President Maduro's removal. American Airlines, Air Canada, and Air France face significant operational disruptions.

Major carriers operating flights to Havana and other Cuban airports must now carry extra jet fuel or reroute to nearby countries like the Dominican Republic or Jamaica for refueling stops. The restrictions affect Jose Marti International Airport in Havana and smaller airports in Varadero, Holguín, Manzanillo, and Santa Clara. Air Canada has already reduced its Cuba service, running primarily non-revenue flights to repatriate stranded travelers.

The crisis stems from Trump administration policies that blocked Cuban oil supplies and threatened tariffs on countries providing them. With Mexico backing away from supplying oil due to tariff threats, Cuba's government warns of critical shortages that could leave portions of the country without power. Despite the disruptions, Cuba remains a popular destination for Canadian and Mexican travelers, though U.S. airlines face the most significant operational challenges.

Quick Fact: Cuba is suspending oil supplies to foreign airlines for one month beginning Feb. 9, 2026.