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Air traffic between Spain and Latin America and the Caribbean exceeded 12 million passengers in 2024, solidifying the recovery of the sector after the pandemic, according to a report from Aviacionline.
However, Cuba has a low participation in this market, with a secondary presence of Cubana de Aviación and a route between Madrid and Havana that has yet to recover the levels seen before the health crisis.
Spanish airlines dominated the market with a share of 72.4%, with Iberia standing out at 38.2% of the traffic.
Among Latin American companies, Avianca led with an 8.2% market share, followed by LATAM with 8.0% and Aeroméxico with 5.9%. In contrast, Cubana de Aviación only achieved a 0.1% market share and experienced a 3.40% decrease compared to the previous year.
Despite the reactivation of the aviation sector, Cuba has not managed to recover the flow of passengers between Spain and the island, which reflects the difficulties faced by the state airline to compete in the international market.
Factors such as the availability of flights, connectivity, and economic conditions are influencing this trend.
The situation of air traffic between Spain and Cuba contrasts with the growth of other routes in the region, presenting a challenge to revitalize tourism and enhance the island's air connectivity with Europe.
According to Aviacionline, there has been a significant increase in passengers from Madrid to Santiago de los Caballeros (RD), Caracas, and Cochabamba (Bolivia), with growth rates of 105.04%, 57.04%, and 54.8%, respectively, compared to 2023.
Also, besides Cuba, other routes that have not managed to recover and surpass pre-pandemic levels are Cali (Colombia), Rio de Janeiro/Galeão (Brazil), and Salvador da Bahia (Brazil).
Reduction of flights by Spanish airlines
Several Spanish airlines have adjusted their operations in Cuba. In August 2023, Iberojet announced the cancellation of its Madrid-Santiago de Cuba route, which had been launched less than a year prior, due to "operational reasons." The last flight on this route took place on September 29, 2023.
Furthermore, in February 2025, Iberia indicated the possibility of canceling its flights to Cuba from Spain, citing low profitability as the main reason.
Suspension of operations by international airlines
The trend is not limited to Spanish airlines. Edelweiss Air, a Swiss airline, announced in February 2025 the suspension of its flights to Cuba starting in March of the same year, primarily affecting the Zurich-Havana route. The decision was attributed to difficulties in ensuring stable and reliable operations at Havana airport, as well as a decline in passenger demand.
Months earlier, in December 2024, Condor announced the suspension of all its operations to Cuba starting in May 2025, which will eliminate the only direct air connection between Germany and the Caribbean nation.
This decision affects destinations such as Havana, Varadero, and Holguín, and is attributed to a decline in passenger demand and growing problems with local infrastructure in Cuba, including power outages and shortages.
These factors have negatively impacted the travel experience and the operations of the sector.
Frequently Asked Questions about Air Connectivity and Tourism in Cuba
Why does Cuba have low participation in air traffic between Spain and Latin America?
Cuba maintains a low participation in air traffic between Spain and Latin America due to the lack of competitiveness of Cubana de Aviación, which barely reaches 0.1% of the market. The lack of flights and connectivity, along with economic conditions and deteriorated infrastructure, are factors that influence this trend.
Which airlines have canceled or reduced their flights to Cuba recently?
Several airlines have reduced or canceled flights to Cuba, including Iberia, Edelweiss Air, Condor, Iberojet, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. These cancellations are due to low profitability and a decrease in passenger demand, as well as operational issues on the island.
How is the situation with air traffic affecting the Cuban economy and tourism?
The decrease in flights significantly affects Cuban tourism, as it reduces the arrival of international visitors, which is one of the main sources of income for the country. The lack of air connectivity limits Cuba's ability to compete with other Caribbean destinations, negatively impacting its economy.
What are the main reasons for the decline in tourist arrivals in Cuba?
The decline in the arrival of tourists to Cuba is due to infrastructure issues, competition from other Caribbean destinations, and poor government management. Additionally, the energy crisis, with frequent blackouts and the deterioration of hotel infrastructure, discourages travelers.
What are the forecasts for tourism in Cuba in 2025?
By 2025, Cuba is expected to receive approximately 2.6 million tourists, a figure that is still below pre-pandemic levels. Projections indicate a slow recovery due to the structural and connectivity challenges facing the country.
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