The Foreign Office has advised UK travellers against all but essential travel to Cuba, citing severe fuel shortages and nationwide power cuts that are disrupting transport, healthcare and communications across the island.
The advisory, issued on Wednesday 11 February, warns that flight schedules are being affected by a lack of aviation fuel, with some airlines reviewing routes or temporarily cancelling services. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) said the situation could leave visitors unable to leave the country.
Cuba has introduced fuel rationing and scaled back public services, including temporary changes to healthcare, education, transport and tourism operations. The FCDO urged Britons currently in Cuba to carefully consider whether their presence is essential, to conserve fuel, water, food and mobile phone charge, and to stay in contact with their airline and tour operator.
While no direct flights operate between the UK and Cuba, several specialist tour operators offering the destination via third countries are affected, including Trailfinders, Simply Cuba, Love Cuba, Cox & Kings, Exodus and Intrepid Travel. The warning follows similar moves by Canadian airlines, with Air Canada suspending all flights to Cuba and organising the evacuation of around 3,000 holidaymakers. Air Transat and WestJet have also suspended their Cuba services.
The fuel crisis has been attributed to the confiscation of Venezuelan oil tankers by the administration of US President Donald Trump. Cuba relies heavily on Venezuela for fuel, and supplies have been blockaded since December. According to a Notice to Aviation (NOTAM), aviation fuel will not be commercially available at Cuban airports until at least 11 March 2026.
