A charter flight that was supposed to depart from Havana to Fort Myers, Florida, turned into a nightmare for dozens of passengers who endured hours of oppressive heat inside the plane, without air conditioning and without clear answers from the agency Cubazul.
The episode, documented in a video by the user on TikTok @helencarrera00, shows travelers fanning themselves desperately while a girl cries and some adults begin to faint.
In the midst of the chaos, an elderly woman suffered a panic attack and burst into tears, forcing the authorities to evacuate all passengers amidst expressions of "It's not easy!"
"A charter flight leaving Havana with Cubazul (Fort Myers) without air conditioning, passengers fainting, and a single child, my daughter," the passenger reported in the post, which quickly went viral.
The Cuban woman recounted that the ordeal began with a delay of several hours and ended up extending over three days of waiting on the island before finally managing to leave Cuba. Despite having paid for a first-class seat, she stated that upon boarding the return flight, she was surprised to find that those seats were occupied by the owners of the charter. "There was no apology, let alone a refund," she complained.
The images reflect the accumulated discomfort of the passengers, many of whom come from provinces and also had to face uncertainty and a lack of information. "What a shame," wrote the video’s author.
The case once again highlights the harsh conditions faced by Cubans in their attempts to travel abroad, characterized by endless delays, technical shortcomings, and treatment that, according to complaints, borders on disrespect for those who pay high prices in hope of receiving dignified service.
Frequently asked questions about issues with flights and airports in Cuba
Why did the passengers suffer on the Cubazul flight from Havana to Fort Myers?
Passengers on the Cubazul charter flight from Havana to Fort Myers suffered due to the lack of air conditioning on the plane, which caused a situation of suffocating heat. Additionally, they faced several hours of delay without receiving clear answers from the agency, and an elderly woman experienced a panic attack due to the conditions.
What are the current conditions of airports in Cuba?
Airports in Cuba, such as the José Martí International Airport in Havana, face infrastructure and service issues. Reports have indicated power outages, lack of cleanliness in restrooms, and technical deficiencies, which negatively impact travelers' experiences and lead to constant criticism.
How is tourism in Cuba affected by these situations at airports and flights?
Tourism in Cuba is negatively affected by issues at airports and flights, such as power outages, poor infrastructure conditions, and service deficiencies. This has contributed to a decline in hotel occupancy and a poor international image, which has reduced the influx of visitors.
What measures should be taken to improve the situation of charter flights in Cuba?
To improve the situation of charter flights in Cuba, it is crucial for agencies like Cubazul to enhance infrastructure and customer service. This includes ensuring air conditioning operates effectively, providing clear information to passengers, honoring class reservations, and offering solutions in case of emergencies.
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