Iberia is extending the suspension of its direct flights between Madrid and Havana until at least June 2027. The airline cited the continuing energy crisis in Cubaon 19 August 2026, saying it was significantly affecting demand and operations at the destination. Tickets for flights from June 2027 remain on sale, but a return depends on conditions on the ground. During the suspension, connecting flights via Panama under a codeshare agreement with Copa Airlines possible.
The route was suspended in June 2026; Iberia has not operated direct flights on the Madrid–Havana route since then. The company says its offices in Havana remain open to assist passengers. The airline, part of the IAGgroup, describes the impact on its operations in Cuba as “very significant”. It cites fuel shortages in particular, and the resulting constraints on operational reliability at the destination.
Iberia is expanding its flexibility rules for passengers with existing bookings: tickets can be refunded or exchanged for a voucher; passengers can also change their booking or switch to an alternative destination such as Miami, Panama, Santo Domingo or Mexico. According to the airline, these options apply to affected tickets that have already been issued. Iberia notes that the specific terms may vary by fare and booking channel, and advises passengers to contact their point of sale or its customer offices in Havana and Madrid.
The extension affects one of the Spanish carrier’s longest-established long-haul markets. According to the company, Iberia has served Cuba since 1949. In the short term, the decision reduces Cuba’s direct air links with Spain; travellers must rely on connecting flights, which remain dependent on conditions in the region and the operational reliability of partner airlines. The planning uncertainty for Cuba’s tourism industry and businesses operating there will continue, as the number of reliable non-stop links from Europe remains limited.
Attributed statements and outlook: Iberia says the planned resumption in June 2027 is an assumption for planning purposes, subject to an improvement in supply conditions and to sustainable demand. The company has made no specific forecasts about the exact date of resumption; an earlier return remains theoretically possible if conditions at the destination improve significantly.
Editor: Daniel Mayer (Article created with AI assistance).