Sunwing Vacations has announced the extension and expansion of its operational suspension in Cuba due to the ongoing disruption in oil supplies to the popular tourist destination. The suspension affects all operations under the Sunwing Vacations Group, including Sunwing Vacations, WestJet Vacations, and Vacances WestJet Quebec, with cancellations in effect from June 20 to Oct. 9. Initially planned flights to Varadero and Cayo Coco for the summer season have also been postponed, with services set to resume on Oct. 10, as confirmed in a statement to CBC News.
Additionally, the company disclosed that services to Holguin, Santa Clara, Cayo Largo, and Cienfuegos will recommence on Oct. 25. Sunwing Vacations Group, a subsidiary of the WestJet Group, assured affected customers of alternative options, highlighting that trips to destinations like Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, Punta Cana, and Montego Bay remain unaffected.
The disruption in Cuba’s aviation industry began in February when Canadian airlines suspended flights due to fuel shortages at Cuban airports. WestJet had previously announced the cessation of winter operations to Cuba, with plans to resume services on April 26, pending the resolution of the fuel supply issue.
The oil supply crisis in Cuba stemmed from U.S. President Donald Trump’s actions against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro earlier in the year, leading to the severance of Cuba’s oil supply chain from Venezuela. Trump’s executive order imposing tariffs on countries selling oil to Cuba further exacerbated the situation, hindering the nation’s access to fuel resources.
The scarcity of oil has severely impacted the daily lives of Cuban residents, resulting in sporadic nationwide power outages and exorbitant prices for essential grocery items. The situation continues to evolve, with Sunwing Vacations and other airlines closely monitoring developments and providing updates as necessary.