Air Canada announced the immediate suspension of all flights to Cuba, attributing this decision to a shortage of aviation fuel on the island. The airline, in a news release, explained that recent advisories issued by governments indicated an unreliability in the fuel supply at Cuban airports. This situation is expected to deteriorate further, leading to the complete unavailability of aviation fuel for commercial use by February 10.

In order to assist customers stranded in Cuba, Air Canada plans to operate empty flights to transport approximately 3,000 travelers back home. The airline emphasized that it will continue to monitor the fuel shortages closely and evaluate when it can safely resume normal flight operations to the destination. The decision also follows heightened tensions, as U.S. President Donald Trump had threatened sanctions on countries supplying oil to Cuba, which may further complicate the logistics surrounding the fuel crisis.

The suspension reflects broader implications for the aviation industry and highlights concerns over international relations affecting travel. As Air Canada navigates these challenges, it must balance its operational needs with customer service commitments, all while keeping a watchful eye on the evolving geopolitical landscape that impacts Cuba's ability to secure reliable fuel supplies.