Avianca airline has postponed the resumption of its Bogotá-Havana flights, originally set to begin on July 2, citing operational issues.

The airline made the announcement on Friday, leaving passengers uncertain about when the route will finally commence.

Avianca has not provided a new start date for the flights but has advised affected passengers to request refunds through its website, mobile app, or travel agencies where tickets were purchased.

They also recommended keeping contact details updated to receive timely updates on flight status changes.

The delay has raised concerns among travelers and industry experts alike.

Aviation Club Center noted the airline’s focus on resolving operational challenges before committing to a reliable service.

This setback affects connectivity between Cuba and South America, particularly after Cuban Tourism Minister Juan Carlos García Granda anticipated Avianca’s return in July with four weekly flights.

Avianca initially operated the Bogotá-Havana route twice weekly starting in 2012 but suspended it in January 2020 amid potential U.S. sanctions.

Avianca’s decision compounds challenges for Cuba, already grappling with reduced air connectivity.

Recently, Boliviana de Aviación announced the suspension of its Santa Cruz de la Sierra-Havana route from July 25, 2024, after just nine months of operation.

Industry analysts speculated the route’s closure stemmed from unsustainable operations and financial losses.

These developments add to previous decisions by Aerolíneas Argentinas and Cubana de Aviación to halt services to Havana, further complicating Cuba‘s tourism recovery post-pandemic.

Despite a slight increase in tourist arrivals in early 2024 compared to the previous year, Cuba’s overall tourism sector remains sluggish, with ongoing challenges in meeting arrival targets and optimizing hotel occupancy.

The Cuban government’s efforts to boost tourism, including the construction of luxury hotels, have yet to yield significant economic benefits.

The sector continues to struggle amid global uncertainties, highlighting the persistent difficulties in achieving full recovery and stability in Cuba’s tourism industry.

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