Scores of travelers en route to Moscow, Russia, reported a chaotic and neglected situation at Holguín's Frank País International Airport this Thursday, after being left stranded by Nordwind Airlines.
A video shared by journalist Yosmany Mayeta on Facebook captures the exchange between the affected passengers and Holguín airport officials.
The issue arose on October 29, coinciding with Hurricane Melissa's passage through eastern Cuba. Nordwind Airlines altered its flight path, scheduling a departure from Varadero International Airport, without notifying the Cuban passengers of this change.
The travelers, hailing from various provinces across the country, discovered at the airport that the flight would not be departing from Holguín, but rather from Varadero—over 600 kilometers away.
“They had time to notify the date change for the October 30 departure. Why didn’t they inform us it was from Varadero?” questioned one of the stranded travelers.
Eyewitnesses reported that airport officials completely ignored the predicament, refusing to provide transportation or any solution for the passengers, which included entire families, the elderly, and children.
The rerouting was attributed to Hurricane Melissa's impact and weather conditions in Holguín. Nevertheless, passengers agree that neither Nordwind Airlines nor the Cuban airport authorities communicated the change in advance or offered alternative transportation, leaving them stranded and distressed.
“We understand a hurricane hit, but what doesn't make sense is that no one takes responsibility. We just want to catch our flight, not lose all the money and effort it took to get here,” lamented another frustrated traveler.
Amidst the worst migration crisis in recent Cuban history, where thousands are seeking to leave the island due to a lack of opportunities, the state showcases its inefficiency and indifference towards citizen suffering. This incident highlights the chronic improvisation and institutional neglect that dominate the nation’s public services, even in critical infrastructures like international airports.
Understanding the Holguín Airport Travel Disruption
What caused the disruption at Holguín Airport?
The disruption was caused by Nordwind Airlines changing the departure airport from Holguín to Varadero due to Hurricane Melissa, without notifying passengers in advance.
How far is Varadero from Holguín?
Varadero is over 600 kilometers away from Holguín, making it a significant distance for travelers to cover without prior notice or arranged transportation.
What are the consequences of this incident for travelers?
Travelers faced being stranded without transportation, potential financial losses, and the emotional distress of possibly missing their flight due to the lack of communication and support from the airline and airport authorities.