A Cuban commercial pilot recently took to social media to reveal how navigation systems in aircraft display official notifications about the fuel shortage crisis affecting airports across Cuba. This revelation comes as online discussions about the island’s supply crisis continue to gain momentum.
The video, shared on TikTok by a pilot known as Adrián (@pilot_adrleo), addresses queries from numerous individuals questioning whether the lack of fuel for aircraft in Cuba was factual or merely speculative.
“I’ve received several messages from people asking, ‘Adrián, is it true there’s no fuel in Cuba? Is it a lie? What’s really happening?’” the pilot explained at the beginning of the video. He decided to verify the information directly using the system utilized by flight crews.
Throughout the video, Adrián demonstrates the use of an iPad that pilots rely on for checking aeronautical charts, flight plans, and operational data from airports. In the NOTAM section—official notices to aviators—the message reads: “Fuel not available.”
The notification appears for Havana's José Martí International Airport, effective from February 10 at 12:00 a.m. until March 11. The pilot confirms that similar notifications are present at other airports across the nation. He cites examples such as Juan Gualberto Gómez International Airport in Varadero and Ignacio Agramonte Airport in Camagüey, where fuel is also unavailable during the same timeframe.
“The NOTAM is authentic; it’s present at every Cuban airport,” he asserted.
The aviator elaborated that this predicament forces airlines to alter their logistical plans. "If you’re flying to Cuba, you must bring both the outbound and return fuel," he explained.
In other instances, airlines are adjusting their flight paths to incorporate technical stops at nearby airports outside the island for refueling before proceeding to their final destination. Flights from Europe have begun making fuel stops in third countries before returning.
Additionally, several airlines have started canceling or modifying their services to Cuba due to the inability to secure fuel at their destination. Flights from Canada to the island have been canceled amidst this scenario, as reported in social media discussions and specialized aviation forums.
This operational notice highlights once more the challenges the country faces, which are also evident in key sectors like transportation and energy. Online, the debate continues over the true extent of the situation.
Understanding Cuba's Aviation Fuel Crisis
What is a NOTAM and why is it important?
A NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) is an official notice containing information essential to personnel concerned with flight operations. It is crucial for ensuring the safety and efficiency of flight operations.
How are airlines adapting to the fuel shortage in Cuba?
Airlines are modifying their flight plans to carry additional fuel for round trips or making technical stops at nearby airports outside Cuba for refueling. Some flights are being canceled or rerouted due to these constraints.
Which airports in Cuba are affected by the fuel shortage?
The fuel shortage affects major airports in Cuba, including José Martí International in Havana, Juan Gualberto Gómez in Varadero, and Ignacio Agramonte in Camagüey, among others.