The Venezuelan state airline, Conviasa, has decided to discontinue its flight operations between Caracas, Moscow, and Havana, a route it has managed since 2023. This move further undermines Cuba's already fragile air connectivity. The Russian Association of Tour Operators (ATOR) communicated on its Telegram channel that the last flight from Moscow to Caracas, with a stop in Havana, is scheduled for April 28.
While Conviasa will continue its direct flights between Moscow and Caracas, the flights to Havana are suspended indefinitely, as reported by the Russian website Fomag. According to the airline's reservation system, although destinations like Porlamar are listed, attempts to book show no available flights.
Russian tour operators Fun&Sun and Coral Travel, previously offering packages with Conviasa flights, are now seeking alternatives for affected travelers. Fun&Sun is providing refunds or rebooking options to other destinations, keeping hotel reservations in Cuba for those opting to purchase additional flights. Coral Travel is handling affected cases individually.
Limited Air Links Between Cuba and Russia
Currently, the only active air connections between Cuba and Russia are operated by Rossiya and Nordwind airlines, according to ATOR. The suspension of Conviasa's route adds to a series of cancellations reflecting Cuba’s increasing aerial isolation. Despite the Cuban government's ambitious plans to upgrade José Martí International Airport, airlines continue to withdraw due to low demand and poor operational conditions.
Earlier in April, CiberCuba reported that airlines like Avianca, Copa, and Wingo were maintaining flights from Colombia to Havana with occupancy rates below 70%, levels deemed financially unsustainable for commercial airlines. Experts suggest flights need above 80% occupancy and an average fare of at least $300 per passenger to remain viable.
International Airlines Retreat Amid Poor Conditions
In stark contrast, Cuban officials showcased plans at the International Transport and Logistics Fair to renovate runways, aprons, and terminals. They even inaugurated a new lounge for 300 passengers at Terminal 3. However, these efforts seem insufficient to curb the exodus of international airlines.
In March, Swiss airline Edelweiss Air canceled its Zurich-Havana route, citing operational challenges and low traveler interest. German airline Condor also declared it would cease all operations to Cuba by May 2025, ending the last direct connection between Germany and the island. Condor attributed its decision to declining passenger demand and worsening local conditions, from power outages and shortages to logistical issues severely impacting tourist experiences.
The closure of Conviasa's route exacerbates a crisis threatening to further isolate Cuba from the international tourism market, just as the government strives to project an image of modernization that, in reality, does not translate into more visitors or flights.
Understanding the Implications of Conviasa's Route Suspension
Why did Conviasa suspend its flights to Havana?
Conviasa suspended its flights to Havana due to a strategic decision to focus on its direct routes between Moscow and Caracas, leaving the Havana leg suspended indefinitely.
What alternatives are available for travelers affected by Conviasa's suspension?
Affected travelers can seek refunds or alternative destinations through Russian tour operators Fun&Sun and Coral Travel, which are managing individual cases and offering rebooking options.
Which airlines currently operate flights between Cuba and Russia?
The only airlines currently operating flights between Cuba and Russia are Rossiya and Nordwind.