Related videos:
Iberia has subcontracted the airlines Iberojet and Wamos Air to operate the Madrid-Havana route in the coming months, in an effort to maintain its offering of flights to Cuba while strengthening its operations in Latin America and the United States.
Since March 1st, Iberojet, part of the Ávoris group, has been operating the route with an Airbus A330, a service that will continue until March 29th.
Then, Wamos Air will take over with the same model of aircraft, ensuring the connection between the Spanish capital and Havana from April 11 to June 29 and, after a break, from July 22 to September 30.
"The configuration of these airplanes is divided into several cabins, similar to that of Iberia's usual fleet," the airline explained in a statement directed to travel agencies, cited by Preferente.
The strategy of Iberia to rely on subcontracted companies also extends to other destinations. For Panama, the airline utilizes the services of Iberojet until March 23, while Privilege Style will handle the route to Caracas until March 29.
Air Europa strengthens its presence in Havana
Air Europa announced last week that there will be an increase in its flights to Havana. The new route offers a daily connection between the Cuban capital and Madrid starting this summer.
So far, the airline Globalia operated six flights a week, with no service on Sundays. Soon, the frequency will extend to seven days a week, strengthening the airline's presence on the island.
The José Martí International Airport, through its official channel on Telegram, confirmed that Air Europa is now operating daily flights to other key destinations such as Miami, Bogotá, Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, Lima, and Santo Domingo.
In addition to Cuba, the airline will increase its frequencies in Medellín, Asunción, Panama, and New York, consolidating its expansion strategy in Latin America and the Caribbean.
With these measures, both Iberia and Air Europa seek to adapt to a supposed growing demand for flights between Spain and Cuba, offering various options for passengers amid an increasingly strong competition in the transatlantic aviation sector.
This increase in flights to Cuba could impact tourism this summer, following the observation that in 2024 the arrival of Spanish tourists to the island decreased significantly due to several factors such as the economic crisis, power outages, and food shortages.
These factors, combined with inadequate infrastructure and hotels lacking supplies, have sparked criticism in the European market. Furthermore, competition from destinations like the Dominican Republic and Jamaica, which have modernized their services and offer better prices, has led many Spanish travelers to opt for Punta Cana instead of visiting Havana.
Frequently Asked Questions about Flights from Madrid to Havana and Tourism in Cuba
Why does Iberia subcontract other airlines for the Madrid-Havana route?
Iberia subcontracted Iberojet and Wamos Air to maintain its flight offer to Cuba while strengthening its operations in Latin America and the United States. This strategy aims to ensure connectivity between Madrid and Havana despite fluctuations in demand and the low profitability of the route.
What changes has Air Europa announced for its flights to Havana?
Air Europa will increase its flights to Havana starting next summer, rising from six to seven weekly flights. This will provide a daily connection between Madrid and the Cuban capital, thereby strengthening its presence on the island.
How is the economic crisis in Cuba affecting tourism and airlines?
The economic crisis in Cuba has led to a decrease in flight demand, negatively impacting airlines. The scarcity of food, power outages, and lack of supplies in hotels have deteriorated the tourist experience, steering tourists towards more appealing destinations such as the Dominican Republic and Jamaica.
What measures are airlines taking in response to the low profitability of flights to Cuba?
Due to the low profitability of flights to Cuba, some airlines have reduced or canceled their routes. Iberia, for example, is considering prioritizing more profitable markets. Air Europa and other airlines are trying to adjust their offerings to adapt to fluctuating demand.
Filed under:
