In response to Havana's recent announcement about its inability to supply fuel to airlines operating in Cuba, Iberia has assured CiberCuba that it does not anticipate "any operational changes or cancellations for flights between Madrid and Cuba."
However, the airline is closely "monitoring the situation to implement necessary measures if needed."
Currently, the Spanish airline has "introduced flexible fare options for passengers with tickets to Cuba who wish to voluntarily alter their travel plans." This step, they emphasize, is in response to "the ongoing fuel supply challenges in Cuba."
This comes after the Cuban regime publicly acknowledged its lack of fuel, worsening the already frequent power outages, halting transportation, and partially hindering economic activities. This situation corroborates the prediction made by Jorge Piñón, a researcher at the University of Texas's Energy Institute, who stated in a January 18 interview with CiberCuba that the regime had enough oil for 4-8 weeks, after which the country might come to a standstill.
Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel admitted in a press conference with sympathetic media last week that since December 2025, no oil shipments from Venezuela have arrived on the island. However, he did not clarify the reasons or whether this situation is linked to Maduro's capture. He also provided no indication of the nature of future relations with his successor Delcy Rodriguez.
On January 30, President Trump's order imposing tariffs on those selling oil to Cuba took effect. A week later, the regime informed airlines of its inability to provide them with fuel.
Impact of Fuel Shortage on Cuba's Airline Connectivity
How is Iberia responding to Cuba's fuel shortage?
Iberia is currently offering flexible fare options for passengers wishing to alter their travel plans voluntarily while closely monitoring the situation to make necessary adjustments.
What are the broader implications of Cuba's fuel shortage?
The fuel shortage in Cuba exacerbates existing power outages, disrupts transportation, and limits economic activities, confirming predictions of a potential standstill in the country.
What has caused the interruption of oil shipments from Venezuela to Cuba?
While Miguel Díaz-Canel mentioned the halt of oil shipments since December 2025, he did not provide reasons or confirm if it relates to Maduro's capture or the transition to Delcy Rodriguez.