Cuba Travel Warning: Fuel Shortages, Flight Cancellations, and Political Instability – What You Need to Know

Published on February 26, 2026

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The UK Foreign Office has issued a warning about the worsening situation in Cuba, urging British nationals to reconsider any non-essential travel to the island. Following a severe shortage of aviation fuel that has led to the suspension of several international flights, the Cuban authorities have been struggling to maintain basic services. The Foreign Office’s updated advisory highlights the potential for rapid deterioration of conditions, particularly in terms of travel, healthcare, and public services.

Growing Disruptions in Cuba

On February 12, 2026, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) advised against all but essential travel to Cuba. This follows an official statement from the Cuban government that its international airports are unable to supply aviation fuel for at least a month. As a result, numerous flight cancellations have occurred, affecting airlines that include Canadian carriers and LATAM Airlines. This has severely limited options for travelers attempting to leave Cuba.

The FCDO has raised concerns about worsening fuel shortages, which have led to power outages, restrictions on transportation, and the scaling back of public services. Cuban authorities have implemented fuel rationing and are adjusting their healthcare and tourism operations to conserve resources. As a result, tourists and travelers to Cuba are being urged to make contingency plans in case the situation worsens further.

Flight Cancellations and Limited Options for Travel

The Foreign Office warns that Cuba’s airports are without aviation fuel, and many airlines have suspended their flights to and from the island. Canadian airlines, along with LATAM, have been among the first to halt operations, leaving travelers stranded or uncertain about their ability to leave Cuba. Other carriers are also reconsidering their routes, further limiting the options for departure.

Travelers wishing to leave the country are being advised to closely monitor updates from their airline or tour operator, as flight availability could change on short notice. Those planning to fly should ensure that their travel documents are in order, including valid passports and necessary visas for onward travel. Additionally, visitors to Cuba are advised to prepare for significant disruption in services across the island, from transportation to healthcare.

Cuba’s National Disruption: A Ripple Effect on Tourists

The current fuel shortage in Cuba is not just impacting aviation but is also creating widespread disruptions to the country’s infrastructure. For tourists, this means potential delays in travel plans, reduced services at local attractions, and limited public transportation options. As the situation evolves, it is critical for anyone in or planning to visit Cuba to stay informed about the latest updates from local authorities and their airlines.

In addition to transportation concerns, the Cuban government has made adjustments to its healthcare and public services in response to the ongoing fuel crisis. Essential public services, such as transportation and healthcare, are expected to be scaled back, which could pose challenges for tourists requiring medical attention or needing access to key services during their stay.

Escalating Tensions: Cuba’s Political Situation and Its Impact on Safety

Adding to the turbulence, the political situation in Cuba has recently worsened. On February 25, 2026, Cuban authorities reported that their forces had killed four exiles and wounded six others after they attempted to sail into Cuban waters on a Florida-registered speedboat and opened fire on a Cuban patrol. This violent clash highlights the instability in the region and underscores the risks that travelers could face in Cuba.

The UK Foreign Office has reiterated its advice for Britons in Cuba to carefully consider if their presence is essential and to be prepared for any sudden changes to the security or political climate. Given the potential for further violence, tourists are urged to exercise caution and stay up-to-date with the latest security developments.

Tips for Travelers Planning to Visit Cuba

Travelers intending to visit or currently staying in Cuba should take several precautions to ensure their safety and minimize disruption to their plans:

1. Monitor Airline and Tour Operator Updates: Check for real-time updates from your airline or tour operator regarding flight availability, changes, or cancellations due to the fuel crisis.
2. Confirm Travel Documents: Ensure your passport and any visas are valid for your intended travel, especially if you need to make alternative plans for leaving the country.
3. Be Prepared for Infrastructure Disruptions: Expect reduced public services, including transportation and healthcare. Be ready for delays, and have a backup plan in case you need to change your travel dates.
4. Stay Informed on Security Issues: Be mindful of any political or social unrest in Cuba. Keep in touch with your embassy and check official news sources for the latest security advice.
5. Keep Emergency Numbers Handy: Make sure you have the contact information for your country’s embassy in Cuba, as well as emergency services, in case of an unforeseen situation.

What This Means for Business Travel to Cuba

For business travelers heading to or currently in Cuba, the disruptions may have significant consequences. The fuel shortage and the suspension of flights mean that timely travel for meetings, conferences, or business operations may not be feasible. Moreover, reduced public transportation services could lead to logistical challenges for local business operations. Companies involved in international trade with Cuba should prepare for potential delays in shipments and disruptions to regular business activity.

The Way Forward for Tourists in Cuba

While the situation remains fluid, travelers to Cuba should prepare for a rapidly changing environment. With limited flight options, infrastructure disruptions, and the potential for a deteriorating political climate, it’s crucial to remain flexible and adaptable.

For tourists planning a visit to Cuba, it is important to stay informed and make alternative travel arrangements as needed. The fuel shortage and related issues are affecting all sectors, from transportation to healthcare, so those who are already in Cuba or planning a visit should take all necessary precautions to ensure a smooth and safe experience.

Conclusion: Exercise Caution and Stay Informed

The situation in Cuba is evolving quickly, and the risks to travelers are significant. The ongoing fuel shortages, flight cancellations, and infrastructure disruptions highlight the challenges of traveling to or within Cuba in the near future.

The UK Foreign Office’s advice remains clear: only essential travel should be undertaken at this time, and travelers should be prepared for sudden disruptions. By staying informed and making contingency plans, visitors can navigate this uncertain situation and ensure their safety while visiting this beautiful yet currently volatile destination.

Key Points in Bullet Form:

• Fuel shortages in Cuba have led to flight cancellations and reduced public services.
• Canadian airlines and LATAM have suspended flights to and from Cuba, limiting travel options.
• Cuban authorities have scaled back healthcare and transportation to conserve fuel.
• Political unrest in Cuba recently resulted in a violent clash with exiles, adding to the safety risks.
• Travelers are advised to monitor updates and make alternative travel plans if necessary.

Travelers should continue to stay updated with official government advisories and airline communications to minimize disruption to their plans.