The fuel crisis in Cuba is severely impacting the tourism industry, a vital source of foreign currency for the island. Hotels are shutting down, and more than 1,700 flights have been canceled during the peak season.
According to a report by Reuters on February 18, the shortage of aviation fuel has brought the tourism sector to a near standstill. This disruption affects everything from airlines to hotel chains and local operators in popular destinations like Varadero.
Major Canadian airlines, including Air Canada, WestJet, and Transat, have announced the suspension of flights to Cuba. This could lead to the cancellation of up to 1,709 flights by April, according to data from Cirium cited by Reuters.
Russia, the third-largest source of tourists to Cuba, is also planning to evacuate its travelers and temporarily halt connections.
The consequences are already evident on the ground. The Spanish hotel chain Meliá has reported the closure of three out of its 30 hotels in Cuba, relocating guests to facilities with higher occupancy. Meanwhile, the NH Group has closed all its hotels in the country.
Workers in the industry describe a situation of complete uncertainty due to the fuel shortage.
Tourism brought in approximately $1.3 billion in foreign currency in 2024, accounting for about 10% of Cuba's export revenue, based on the latest official data cited by Reuters.
Economists warn that a total collapse of the tourism sector would lead to an untenable situation for the Cuban economy, which is already suffering from blackouts, shortages, and a falling GDP.
The administration of President Donald Trump has increased pressure on Havana with measures aimed at restricting oil supplies to the island, worsening the already fragile energy situation.
In this context, the fuel crisis could spark further economic decline.
In 2025, Cuba received only 1.8 million visitors, the lowest number in over two decades, continuing a downward trend that began after the pandemic.
Now, with empty beaches and shuttered hotels, tourism is emerging as another sector contributing to the profound structural collapse facing the country.
Impact of Fuel Crisis on Cuba's Tourism
How is the fuel crisis affecting tourism in Cuba?
The fuel shortage has led to hotel closures and the cancellation of over 1,700 flights, significantly disrupting the tourism sector.
Which airlines have suspended flights to Cuba?
Air Canada, WestJet, and Transat are among the major Canadian airlines that have suspended flights to Cuba.
What is the economic significance of tourism for Cuba?
Tourism accounts for about 10% of Cuba's export revenue, bringing in roughly $1.3 billion in foreign currency in 2024.