A parliamentary inspection of 19 out of the 22 Cuban civil airports revealed a series of deficiencies that confirm what many passengers already knew: traveling to Cuba is an odyssey.
From deteriorated runways to restrooms without water or toilet paper, the report presented by the Business Aviation System to the National Assembly of People's Power reveals a worrying outlook for the airport system, which is crucial for the revival of tourism and national mobility.
The results, obtained from interviews with over 400 people and on-site visits, reveal a reality that contrasts with the official propaganda.
Some international airports, such as José Martí in Havana, have made improvements in maintenance, but many terminals in the interior of the country, such as those in Granma, Guantánamo, and Las Tunas, are experiencing partial closures due to the poor condition of the runways. This limits connectivity between provinces and causes delays and inconveniences for travelers.
The conditions of the basic services are alarming. In several terminals, the restrooms lack hygiene, running water, and essential supplies. The VIP areas, which should guarantee a superior experience, were described as poorly stocked and lacking in cleanliness.
Technological systems also do not escape deterioration. Connectivity issues and slowdowns in the migration and customs processes have been reported. Although it is officially stated that these procedures have improved, users continue to experience long waits and dissatisfaction.
The "representatives of the people" acknowledged the willingness of airport staff to provide better service, but criticized the slow implementation of solutions. They also warned about the urgency to repair the runways, improve sanitary conditions, expand commercial offerings, and raise standards of comfort and efficiency.
The situation of Cuban airports is not merely a matter of image, but rather a reflection of institutional neglect and a lack of strategic planning. While the Government insists that tourism will be the economic engine of the country, the main entry points remain mired in deterioration and neglect.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Status of Airports in Cuba
What are the main deficiencies found in airports in Cuba?
The main deficiencies found in Cuban airports include deteriorated runways, restrooms without water or toilet paper, and failures in technological systems. This reflects a concerning scenario that affects both tourism and national mobility. The situation is even more serious in terminals in the interior of the country, where some face partial closures due to the poor condition of the runways.
How does the condition of airports affect tourism in Cuba?
The deterioration of Cuban airports directly affects tourism, a key sector for the country's economy. Poor infrastructure, combined with the inadequate state of basic services, discourages international travelers. Additionally, air connectivity is declining, with airlines canceling routes due to low demand and poor local conditions, contributing to a significant drop in the number of visitors.
What measures are being taken to improve airport conditions in Cuba?
The authorities have promised improvements such as the repair of runways, increased efficiency in customs procedures, and the expansion of commercial offerings. However, the implementation of these solutions has been slow, and tangible improvements are still insufficient. In some cases, such as at Terminal 3 of José Martí Airport, efforts are being made to enhance the air conditioning system, although the results have been limited so far.
What impact does the condition of the airports have on the international perception of Cuba?
The poor condition of Cuban airports negatively impacts the international perception of Cuba as a tourist destination. Infrastructure issues and lack of basic services, along with the decline in tourist arrivals, have created an image of neglect and abandonment that contradicts the government’s promotional efforts. This, in turn, hinders the attraction of foreign investments needed to improve current conditions.
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