Two flights from Toronto, Canada, headed to Varadero, were unable to complete their route on September 15 and had to return to Pearson International Airport, which several passengers and social media posts attribute to a massive blackout that reportedly left air traffic control in the Cuban capital without radar.
According to the independent media CubaNet, these flights were AC1740, operated by Air Canada Rouge, and WJA2710, from WestJet Airlines. Both appeared on tracking platforms such as Flightradar24 and FlightAware with the label “Diverted”, confirming that they returned to Toronto after hours of flight.
A Canadian passenger recounted in a video posted on Facebook by user Edmundo Dantés Junior, that the captain informed them of the situation mid-flight. “We're heading to Cuba and the captain spoke over the intercom and said: 'Guess what: we have a big problem here; we actually have to turn around and return to Toronto because they have lost all power in Havana, I believe at the radar facility where they monitor incoming and outgoing flights. We were told that; we're sorry, we have to divert and go back, so we have no idea if we'll arrive in Cuba today or what the plan is.’”
For its part, the profile Cubanos por el Mundo also mentioned that Cuba had suspended arrivals due to a total power loss at the radar station, which prevented the assurance of air safety. So far, neither the airlines nor the Cuban or Canadian authorities have officially confirmed the cause of the diversions.
An electricity crisis affecting all sectors
The episode occurred amidst the unprecedented energy crisis in Cuba, characterized by prolonged blackouts and nationwide outages that impact not only domestic life but also strategic services.
On September 10, the country was left completely in the dark following the collapse of the National Electric System (SEN), caused by the unexpected shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras power plant. Millions of Cubans were without electricity for hours, and according to official reports, only about 5% of the territory had power during the most critical moments.
Although the government declared the SEN restored the following day, the situation remains critical: the generation deficit sometimes exceeds 1,800 MW, with several plants out of service due to breakdowns and lack of maintenance. As a consequence, power outages are occurring without clear schedules, affecting hospitals, businesses, transportation and now even air security.
For the population, this crisis translates into food shortages, compromised health services, and a growing sense of despair in the face of an uncertain situation. The interruption of international flights due to alleged failures linked to the electrical system reinforces the seriousness of the issue and raises questions about the country's ability to protect critical infrastructure amidst the energy collapse.
Frequently asked questions about the blackout at the Cuban airport and the energy crisis in Cuba
Why did the flights from Canada to Varadero have to turn back?
Flights from Canada to Varadero had to turn back due to a massive blackout that affected air traffic control in Havana, leaving it without radar. This forced the planes to return to Toronto for safety reasons.
What is the current situation of the energy crisis in Cuba?
Cuba is facing an unprecedented energy crisis, with prolonged blackouts and a generation deficit exceeding 1,800 MW. The collapse of the National Electric System has impacted multiple sectors, including air security.
What measures are being taken to ensure the operation of airports in Cuba during blackouts?
Cuban airports operate with alternative means, such as electric generators, to ensure the arrival and departure of flights. However, these means are not always sufficient to ensure optimal operation.
How does the energy crisis affect tourists in Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba primarily affects tourists through blackouts, which can disrupt basic services in hotels and resorts. Although many tourist spots are equipped with generators, the lack of fuel remains an issue.
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