Starting this Saturday, Air Europa will be relocating its technical refueling stop from Santo Domingo to Punta Cana on its Madrid-Havana route, as confirmed by the Spanish airline to the specialized outlet, Preferente.
Since February 2026, the airline has been making technical stops outside of Cuba, following the island's issuance of NOTAM A0356/26, which alerted to the unavailability of Jet A-1 fuel at nine international Cuban airports, including Havana's José Martí airport.
Until Friday, June 12, the refueling stop was conducted in Santo Domingo. Beginning this Saturday, the airline's Boeing 787s will make their stop in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. This arrangement is expected to remain in place until at least July 1.
Current Flight Schedules and Challenges
Air Europa has confirmed through company sources to Preferente that they are "maintaining the three weekly flights" to Cuba. However, they acknowledged that they are "constantly evaluating" the conditions on the island.
Amidst U.S. pressures on foreign businesses operating in Cuba, Air Europa remains the sole Spanish airline flying to the island after Iberia, World2Fly, and Cubana de Aviación ceased operations.
At present, only Air Europa and Air China—on its Beijing-Madrid-Havana route—provide direct flights from Madrid to Cuba this month. The reduced availability has caused ticket prices to soar, with a one-way flight from Cuba on Air Europa potentially exceeding $2,000.
Impact on Air Travel to Cuba
In 2026, at least 11 international airlines have suspended flights to Cuba, resulting in over 1,700 canceled trips. Iberia halted its route on June 1, citing the decision as one "exclusively affecting Cuba, due to its exceptional situation."
World2Fly made its final flight on May 20, and Cubana de Aviación canceled its sole connection with Spain on May 12.
As the last remaining direct air link between Spain and Cuba, Air Europa acknowledges that the situation is under continuous scrutiny.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Europa's Operations in Cuba
Why did Air Europa change its refueling stop to Punta Cana?
Air Europa changed its refueling stop to Punta Cana due to the unavailability of Jet A-1 fuel at several international airports in Cuba, including Havana's José Martí airport.
Which airlines still offer direct flights from Madrid to Cuba?
Currently, only Air Europa and Air China offer direct flights from Madrid to Cuba.
What is the impact of reduced flights on ticket prices to Cuba?
The reduced number of flights has led to an increase in ticket prices, with some flights from Cuba on Air Europa costing over $2,000.