The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued a stark warning against travel to Cuba, advising British citizens to avoid all but essential trips to the Caribbean island. This update, released late on Wednesday 11 February 2026, comes as Cuba faces a deepening energy crisis exacerbated by US sanctions, leading to widespread flight cancellations and infrastructure failures.
Foreign Office Guidance and Implications
The FCDO now recommends against all non-essential travel to Cuba, citing severe disruptions to essential services. This advisory effectively invalidates standard travel insurance policies for those visiting the island, except for individuals already in Cuba who are making arrangements to depart. The warning highlights persistent nationwide power outages, fuel rationing, and scaled-back public services, which significantly impact access to reliable transport, medical care, and communications.
Causes of the Fuel Shortage
The fuel crisis stems from US sanctions following the seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in January, which interrupted a key oil supply to Cuba. Although Mexican suppliers attempted to compensate, an executive order by US President Donald Trump, effective 30 January, imposed punitive tariffs on countries providing oil to Cuba, leading to a complete halt in supplies. This has paralysed the island's aviation sector, with Cuban authorities warning that jet fuel will be unavailable until 11 March 2026.
Impact on Air Travel
Flight schedules have been severely disrupted due to aviation fuel shortages. Air Canada has cancelled its entire weekly programme of 32 flights to Cuban airports, while WestJet has also started cancelling services. To manage the crisis, airlines like Air Canada are tankering in extra fuel for outward journeys and making technical stops, such as in the Bahamas, to refuel for return legs. European carriers, including Iberia, Air France, Turkish Airlines, and Rossiya, are likely to adopt similar measures, with some flights already departing early to accommodate refuelling stops.
Practical Advice for Travellers
For those currently in Cuba, the FCDO advises carefully considering if their presence is essential and taking precautions by conserving resources like fuel, water, and food. Travellers should monitor communications from airlines or tour operators for updates. If needing to leave early, contact your airline to request a seat on an earlier flight or purchase a new ticket, though reimbursement from travel insurance may be possible. Note that flights to the US are not an option for most, as visiting Cuba since January 2021 disqualifies individuals from obtaining an Esta permit.
Future Bookings and Refunds
If you have a future booking to Cuba, options depend on the type of ticket. For flight-only purchases where planes are still operating, there is no automatic right to cancel. However, if you have a package holiday booked imminently, travel firms should provide refunds. The FCDO warning does not yet constitute a full travel ban, so trips may only be cancelled a few weeks in advance. Travelling against FCDO advice will invalidate standard travel insurance, so it is crucial to stay informed as the situation evolves.
This story is regularly updated with the latest information, reflecting the ongoing challenges in Cuban tourism and infrastructure.
