Sunwing and WestJet Pause Cuba Flights Amid Fuel Shortages

Sunwing Vacations and WestJet Vacations have declared a halt on all travel to Cuba until October 2026, due to an escalating fuel crisis that is throwing a wrench into tourism operations.

As per their announcement, all flights and vacation packages to Cuba will be scrapped from June 20 to October 9. The suspension affects popular spots like Varadero and Cayo Coco, favored by Canadian tourists.

This decision arises as Cuba is grappling with acute shortages in gasoline, diesel, and aviation fuel, resulting in extensive power outages and disruptions in essential services nationwide. Earlier in 2026, multiple airlines, including Air Canada, downsized or ceased operations over inconsistent fuel availability at Cuban airports.

Travel agencies indicate the worsening situation complicates safe and dependable flight operations. Airlines find themselves unable to sustain regular schedules without assured access to aviation fuel, pressuring them to cancel flights and alter travel arrangements.

Nonetheless, Sunwing Vacations Group plans to keep offering travel packages to various destinations across Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America, featuring beach locales that remain unaffected by the current crisis.

The company noted that operations to Cuba are predicted to gradually resume in late October, with flights to Varadero and Cayo Coco anticipated to restart on October 10, followed by other routes later that month.

Passengers who booked trips to Cuba during the suspension will be reached out to for alternative travel options or changes to their reservations.

Overall, this suspension underscores the broader implications of Cuba's energy crisis on its tourism sector, a vital revenue stream for the nation. Fuel shortages not only disrupt flights but also curtail the influx of international visitors, leaving many tourist spots with diminished activity.

In summary, this suspension reflects the ongoing challenges faced by both airlines and travelers as recurrent fuel shortages continue to impact travel in the region.