Airlines can no longer refuel on island as US blockade deepens energy crisis: Cuba

HAVANA -- Cuban aviation officials have warned airlines that there isn't enough fuel for airplanes to refuel in the island, part of a critical energy rationing going into place as the Trump administration cuts the island off from its fuel resources, a commercial pilot confirmed on Monday.A notice was sent to companies and airline personnel on Sunday, said the pilot, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to comment on the matter.He noted that while refueling issues have occurred before, an official announcement of this scale is extraordinary even for an island accustomed to perpetual crisis.The move comes as political pressure by U.S.

President Donald Trump on Latin America has effectively severed Cuba’s access to its primary petroleum sources in Venezuela and Mexico.Late last month, Trump signed an executive order that would impose a tariff on any goods from countries that sell or provide oil to Cuba, a move that could further cripple an island plagued by a deepening energy crisis.While the rationing may not disrupt shorter regional flights, it presents a significant challenge for long-haul routes from countries like Russia and Canada — a critical pillar of Cuba’s tourism economy.On Monday, Air Canada announced it was suspending flights to the island.The last time such cuts occurred — more than a decade ago — aircraft bound for Europe refueled in Nassau, Bahamas, the pilot recalled.Now, regional airlines could avoid problems by bringing extra fuel, while others could refuel in Cancun, Mexico, or in the Dominican Republic.It remains unclear how long the notice will remain in effect and Cuban officials have made no public comments on the matter.The fuel shortage deals another blow to a country that relies heavily on tourism, an industry that once generated $3 billion in annual revenue and served as a vital economic lifeline.Cuban officials also announced Monday that bank hours have been reduced and cultural events suspended.

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