Sunwing Vacations Group has decided to halt its operations in Cuba indefinitely. This decision follows the group’s previous announcement in April that Sunwing Vacations, WestJet Vacations, and WestJet Vacations Québec would be canceling all services to Cuba from June 20 to October 9.
The statement released by Sunwing expressed understanding that this news may disappoint guests and travel advisors, especially considering the strong ties many Canadians have with Cuba and its people. While the company did not directly attribute the indefinite suspension to the ongoing fuel shortage in Cuba, it acknowledged the hardships faced by local communities.
Cuba has traditionally been a beloved destination for Sunwing’s guests, and the company is sensitive to the current challenges experienced by residents, tourism employees, and industry partners reliant on the sector.
Major Canadian airlines had initially suspended flights to Cuba back in February when Cuban airports warned of depleting jet fuel supplies due to the U.S.’s interference with oil shipments from Venezuela. This situation effectively cut off Cuba’s aviation gas and fuel supply for its electricity grid.
Recent reports from the country’s energy minister revealed that Cuba had completely depleted its diesel and oil reserves. AirTransat also confirmed that its Cuba services would remain suspended until the end of October, with no current availability for travel packages to the nation.
Sunwing assured customers with existing bookings to Cuba that they would be contacted with alternative options, such as rebooking to a different destination or receiving a full refund.