Due to a shortage of aviation fuel leading to the suspension of flights from major Canadian airlines to Cuba, many travelers from Montreal are adjusting their vacation plans. This disruption comes as a result of the Trump administration’s efforts to limit Cuba’s access to traditional fuel sources. Montrealers like Erick and others at the Montreal-Trudeau airport are opting for alternative destinations in light of these developments.
Erick shared, “Initially, I had considered Cuba for my vacation, but given the recent events involving Trump, I decided to change my destination.”
Similarly, Gavin Thompson, an Ottawa resident, had to alter his travel plans to Cuba due to escalating uncertainties. He mentioned, “With the situation involving Trump and Venezuela, my family and I decided to switch our trip to the Dominican Republic for a more secure vacation experience.”
Major Canadian airlines, including Air Canada, Air Transat, and WestJet, have temporarily halted services to Cuba, with possible resumption dates in late April or early May.
In the face of these disruptions, travelers like Oksana Mehedyniuk are adapting by exploring alternative vacation options. Meanwhile, Gábor Lukács, the president of Air Passenger Rights, emphasized that passengers affected by flight cancellations to Cuba are entitled to refunds or alternative flights on competitor airlines.
The Association of Quebec Travel Agents advises affected travelers to secure refunds promptly and consider rebooking vacations to other destinations sooner rather than later, anticipating potential price increases.
Moscou Coté, the president of the Association des Agents de Voyages du Québec (AAVQ), highlighted the challenges of finding similarly priced flights to Cuba and suggested alternative destinations like the Northern Dominican Republic as viable options.
While alternative routes through Panama or Mexico exist, they are currently not recommended due to the ongoing circumstances. Erick reflected on the enduring impact of the U.S. embargo on Cuba, emphasizing the complexities surrounding the recent developments.
