Information for Travelers

Aviation Safety

Although licensed travelers can travel between the United States and Cuba aboard charter flights, there is no direct commercial service linking the two countries. In early 2003, there were a series of hijackings from smaller Cuban airports that raised serious questions about their level of security. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the U.S. at 1-800-322-7873 or visit the FAA website.

Because of serious concerns about the operation of the Cuban flag carrier, Cubana de Aviacion, particularly regarding its safety and security standards, maintenance regime and history of fatal accidents, U.S. Interests Section staff and official visitors to Cuba are instructed to avoid flying aboard either the domestic or the international flights of Cubana de Aviacion. Americans considering travel on Cubana de Aviacion may wish to defer their travel or pursue private means of transportation.

The Department of Defense (DOD) separately assesses some foreign air carriers for suitability as official providers of air services. For information regarding the DOD policy on specific carriers, travelers may contact DOD at (618) 256-4801.