Cubana de Aviación Revises Domestic Flight Schedules: New Changes Introduced

Cubana de Aviación has recently announced adjustments to its domestic flight schedules amid the ongoing transport crisis in Cuba, compounded by frequent complaints from passengers. The state-operated airline used its official Facebook page to share the updated flight operations plan but omitted specifics about the new schedule's effective dates and times.

The following explores the latest changes, outlines official ticket purchasing channels, and highlights the significant dissatisfaction expressed by travelers over a reorganization that has exacerbated, rather than alleviated, connectivity issues within Cuba.

Official Ticket Purchase Details

According to Cubana de Aviación's announcement:

• Tickets are available on the official website: www.cubana.cu, or at the airline’s commercial offices.
• Payments can be made in cash or via bank transfer.
• Ticket prices adhere to the Ministry of Finance and Prices resolution 346/2020.

The airline cautions against purchasing tickets from third parties, urging customers to use only official channels. Apologies were extended for any inconvenience caused by these changes.

Departure Schedule from Havana

Havana to Holguín
Frequency: Monday
Time: 8:30 p.m.

Havana to Camagüey
Frequency: Wednesday and Sunday
Time: 9:15 p.m.

Havana to Gerona
Frequency: Tuesday and Thursday
Time: 10:30 a.m.

Havana to Santiago de Cuba
Frequency: Tuesday
Time: 2:50 p.m.

Havana to Santiago de Cuba
Frequency: Thursday
Time: 10:00 p.m.

Arrival Schedule to Havana

Holguín to Havana
Frequency: Monday
Time: 10:55 p.m.

Camagüey to Havana
Frequency: Wednesday and Sunday
Time: 11:35 p.m.

Gerona to Havana
Frequency: Tuesday and Thursday
Time: 12:00 p.m.

Santiago de Cuba to Havana
Frequency: Tuesday
Time: 6:45 p.m.

Santiago de Cuba to Havana
Frequency: Friday
Time: 12:15 a.m.

Widespread Criticism Over Night Flights and Lack of Options

The update has sparked widespread criticism in the comments on the airline's post. A major concern among users is the scheduling of flights during nighttime hours, complicating airport access, especially from provinces far from air terminals.

Critics noted, "The Camagüey departure is too late, and you arrive in Havana even later. Boyeros is far away." Another pointed out, "My mother is 87 and cannot take early morning flights. There's no money for private transport to reach her destination." Others questioned, "How can those from outside Havana get home at such hours?"

One user summarized the risks: "In different times, it wouldn't be an issue, but with violence, scammers, and a lack of values, the worst can happen."

Issues with Website and Customer Service

Many users reported problems with the website's functionality, hindering ticket purchases. "Why have a website if it doesn't work?" and "It won't let you access the page," were common grievances.

Additionally, there were complaints about the airline's lack of responsiveness to questions on social media and the absence of detailed information regarding the changes. "The new schedule lacks specifics on when it will be implemented. You don't respond to comments. Many issues in one post," commented an exasperated user.

Flight Cancellations and Lack of Compensation

Another frequent complaint is the cancellation of flights without providing alternatives. Critics noted, "Flights are often canceled, and money is refunded, but that's not a solution. There should be backup transport available." They argued that "Cubana is obligated to have an option ready for when flights are canceled. The current response of 'we have no solution' violates international norms."

The Broader Crisis in Cuban Air Transportation

These changes occur within the wider context of a deteriorating Cuban transportation system. Official figures reveal:

• In 2024, public transportation usage in Cuba fell by over 12%.
• In the first quarter of 2025, the decline was even steeper, at 23%.
• 13.7 million fewer people were transported compared to the same period the previous year.

These statistics illustrate the impact of the transport crisis on the national air travel sector, marked by operational limitations, a shortage of aircraft, and an inadequate capacity to meet rising demand.

Demand for Strategic Reevaluation

While Cubana de Aviación justifies these changes as part of a "reorganization based on fleet availability," the lack of schedule planning, the elimination of routes, and poor institutional communication have fueled user discontent nationwide.

“These schedules aren't for everyday Cubans. They keep creating more obstacles and fewer options," lamented one user.

In a setting where internal transportation is increasingly challenging and costly, the national airline's decisions seem detached from citizens' real needs, who call for greater transparency, better schedules, and feasible travel options within the country.

This is not the first change announced by the airline this year. In February, they informed passengers that only one carry-on piece up to 5 kg and one checked piece up to 23 kg are allowed. Any additional luggage is considered excess and subject to aircraft availability and additional charges.

Cubana de Aviación operates with only two aircraft nationwide, as confirmed in January by Joel Archer Santos, president of the Cuban Aviation Corporation (Cacsa). Archer Santos attributed the situation to the U.S. embargo, claiming necessary aircraft parts are manufactured abroad, requiring prolonged wait times for their arrival.