The José Martí International Airport in Havana reiterated on Wednesday that the ongoing maintenance and repair work on its runway and taxiways will not impact passenger or cargo flights. The airport also announced that the construction will be completed by Monday, October 19.
In an update shared on its official Facebook page, the airport emphasized that the repairs are progressing as scheduled and assured that air operations are running smoothly.
"We want to reaffirm that these repairs do not interfere with or affect air operations (flights). They are being conducted at the airport during scheduled hours for both passengers and cargo," the airport administration stated.
Authorities clarified that the work was previously communicated to operators through aeronautical notices known as NOTAMs, which provide information about temporary conditions or restrictions relevant to air navigation.
This marks the second public clarification of this nature within a month.
Temporary Night Closures Announced
In mid-September, the airport had already assured the public that it was maintaining its usual operations after several NOTAMs caused concern among passengers with booked flights.
Those notices included temporary restrictions on the runway, a 1,340-meter shift of threshold 06, a partial closure of a taxiway, and the temporary shutdown of certain landing aid systems.
The Cuban Air Navigation Company (ECNA) announced via NOTAM A3593/26 a temporary closure of José Martí International Airport for the night of Monday, October 19, from 7:00 p.m. to 2:40 a.m. on Tuesday, October 20, Cuba time.
This measure involves a suspension of airport operations for seven hours and 40 minutes. A previous notice, identified as A3592/26, had set a similar restriction for the night of October 12 to 13.
Fuel Shortages Add to Aviation Challenges
While the airport administration insists that runway repairs do not affect scheduled flights, the NOTAMs specify operational restrictions during certain hours. Authorities have not clarified whether these night closures are related to maintenance work.
Adding to the challenges in Cuban aviation is the shortage of Jet A-1 fuel. As of October 11, NOTAMs indicated that ten airports in the country had reported the unavailability of this fuel until November 1, a situation that has forced several airlines to adjust their operations, reduce frequencies, or make technical stops to refuel.
However, this fuel shortage is a separate issue from the runway repairs at José Martí Airport and the announced night closures. The lack of Jet A-1 alone does not lead to terminal closures or the suspension of all flights.
Travelers with scheduled flights, particularly during the announced night closure hours, should directly confirm any possible itinerary changes with their airlines.
Key Information for Travelers and Airlines in Cuba
How do the runway repairs affect flight schedules at Havana Airport?
According to the airport, the repairs will not disrupt flight schedules. However, travelers should check with their airlines, especially during announced night closures.
What is the impact of Jet A-1 fuel shortages on flights in Cuba?
The Jet A-1 fuel shortage has resulted in some airlines modifying operations, reducing flight frequencies, or making stops to refuel. This issue is separate from runway repairs at José Martí Airport.
Are the night closures at José Martí International Airport related to repair work?
It is not clear if the night closures are directly related to the maintenance work, as authorities have not specified a connection.