Chaos at José Martí Airport in Havana: "The shoe catastrophe of the century and there is no tray for shoes."

The viral video by @yaylenbroche on TikTok highlights the chaos at José Martí Airport in Havana, showcasing a lack of organization and resources that negatively impact travelers and tarnish Cuba's tourism image.


A video shared on TikTok by the Cuban user @yaylenbroche has sparked discussions on social media by showcasing the chaos and shortages experienced at José Martí International Airport in Havana. The post, which has gone viral, highlights the lack of organization and resources at one of Cuba's main entry points.

In the video, the author of the recording can be heard describing the chaotic situation as she tries to get through security: “The chaos of the century here at Havana airport, there’s no tray for the shoes, we’re going to have to struggle over the line for bread. This will make you lose all desire to come back.” These words capture the frustration and challenges travelers face when passing through the airport.

The video shows images of passengers packed tightly, trying to navigate through long lines and obvious disorganization. According to the complaint, there were no trays available for placing personal items, such as shoes, in the security screening area, which further slows down the already congested flow of travelers.

Reactions to the video have been swift. Users have voiced their anger and frustration in the comments, pointing out that the airport, regarded as the country's main terminal, lacks the basic conditions to provide decent service. “This is an embarrassment for an international airport,” one user commented, while another wrote, “It's always the same story; nothing changes in Cuba.”

Others have expressed solidarity with the author of the video, sharing similar experiences during their trips to the island. “I went through the same thing a month ago; there isn’t even enough staff to handle security control.”

José Martí Airport has faced numerous criticisms in recent years, ranging from issues with luggage to poor sanitary conditions. This latest incident adds another example of the challenges travelers encounter in a country where shortages affect even the most basic services.

So far, the Cuban authorities have not released an official statement regarding the video or the passengers' complaints. However, situations like these cause significant damage to the image of tourism on the island, a sector that has historically been one of the main sources of income for the country.

The viral video has once again brought international attention to the shortcomings and deterioration of services in Cuba. Meanwhile, social media users continue to question the management of resources and the priorities of the Cuban government, which are even reflected in the conditions of its main airport.

Frequently asked questions about the chaos at José Martí Airport in Havana

Why was there chaos at José Martí Airport in Havana?

The chaos at José Martí Airport is due to a lack of organization and resources in the security control, such as the absence of trays for personal items, which slows down the flow of travelers and causes frustration among passengers.

What problems do travelers face at José Martí Airport?

Travelers are facing disorganization, long lines, a shortage of bins for security checks, and deficiencies in hygiene and infrastructure, which negatively impacts the passenger experience at the airport.

How have people reacted to the viral airport video?

Reactions to the video have been one of indignation and frustration, with many users expressing that the airport does not meet the basic conditions for dignified service and sharing similar experiences of traveling to Cuba.

What impact does the airport situation have on tourism in Cuba?

The situation at the airport tarnishes the image of tourism in Cuba, a crucial sector for the country's economy, by highlighting the shortcomings and deterioration of basic services that visitors encounter.

What are the main criticisms of the Cuban government regarding airport management?

The main criticisms of the Cuban government point to poor resource management and priorities, which is reflected in the precarious conditions of the airport that affect both locals and tourists.

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Yare Grau

Originally from Cuba, I now live in Spain. I studied Social Communication at the University of Havana and later graduated in Audiovisual Communication from the University of Valencia. I am currently part of the CiberCuba team as a writer in the Entertainment section.