Southwest Airlines has become the latest U.S. carrier to cut back its flights to Cuba. The airline has requested a temporary exemption from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to scale down its Tampa to Havana route from two daily flights to just one, starting September 4, 2025, according to aviation site Aviacionline. This reduction, projected to last until March 2026, is another blow for the many Cubans who rely on these flights to visit relatives, deliver humanitarian aid, or simply stay connected to their heritage.
In its official petition, Southwest acknowledges that the current demand for flights between the U.S. and Cuba is unsustainable in the short term. Although the airline describes the measure as a temporary market adjustment, this cutback highlights a troubling trend where routes to Cuba are becoming increasingly unprofitable for American airlines.
Aviacionline reports that Southwest claims the decision serves the public interest by allowing the airline to "better allocate capacity to meet current network needs." They have also pledged to accommodate affected passengers on the remaining daily flight or offer a full refund.
Back in November 2023, Southwest permanently canceled its Fort Lauderdale to Havana route citing lack of profitability, leaving Tampa as its sole connection. For many Cubans, especially those in South Florida, this change has meant additional expenses, lost time, and reduced access to see their loved ones.
A Shrinking Market: American and United Follow Suit
Southwest is not alone in scaling back. American Airlines, the largest U.S. carrier to Cuba, recently sought to temporarily suspend its Miami to Santiago de Cuba route, cutting off direct flights to eastern Cuba from the U.S.
Meanwhile, United Airlines announced it will completely suspend its Houston to Havana route starting September 2, eliminating the only regular connection between Cuba and a non-Florida U.S. city. The airline cited low demand, seasonality, and a tightening regulatory environment as reasons for its decision.
As tourism from the U.S. to Cuba remains banned, and travel becomes an increasingly complex bureaucratic and financial challenge, these decisions further isolate Cubans both on and off the island, trapping them in a reality of separation and uncertainty.
In June, the Trump administration imposed additional immigration barriers, restricting entry for Cubans with B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visas, and requiring bonds for travelers with entry permits. While these measures don't directly cancel flights, they drastically reduce the number of Cubans who can feasibly travel.
Southwest, United, and American Airlines assert that their cutbacks are temporary. Yet, for many Cuban families, the wait feels interminable.
FAQs on U.S.-Cuba Flight Reductions
Why is Southwest reducing flights between Tampa and Havana?
Southwest Airlines is reducing flights due to unsustainable demand between the U.S. and Cuba, as part of a temporary market adjustment to better allocate its capacity.
How long will the flight reduction last?
The reduction is expected to last from September 4, 2025, until March 2026.
What options are available for affected passengers?
Passengers affected by the reduction can either be accommodated on the remaining daily flight or receive a full refund.
Are other airlines also reducing flights to Cuba?
Yes, American Airlines and United Airlines have also announced reductions in their Cuba routes due to similar challenges.