Iberia will temporarily suspend its direct flights between Madrid and Cuba from June, citing a prolonged decline in demand linked to the country’s ongoing crisis.
The airline says the decision follows several months of challenging conditions on the island that have significantly affected passenger numbers.
Flights will gradually reduce in the coming weeks, with three weekly services operating in April and two in May before the route is fully paused in June. Ticket sales remain open for November, when Iberia plans to resume flights, “provided conditions allow it.”
The airline said the move is directly tied to the situation in Cuba, which has been grappling with economic difficulties, energy shortages, and a noticeable drop in international tourism. Power outages and fuel supply issues have disrupted daily life and travel infrastructure, making the destination less attractive for both leisure and business travellers.
Cuba’s tourism sector, a key source of foreign revenue, has struggled to recover to pre-pandemic levels. Visitor numbers remain below expectations, with fewer long-haul travellers and reduced airline capacity contributing to the slowdown.
Iberia confirmed that during the suspension, passengers can still reach Cuba by flying to Panama and connecting onward through its codeshare agreement with Copa Airlines. The airline added that its offices in Havana will remain open to assist customers during this period.
Operational challenges have already affected flights earlier this year. Since February 9, Iberia has been forced to make technical stops in Santo Domingo for refuelling on return flights to Madrid due to fuel-related constraints on the island.
The airline stressed that the suspension applies only to Cuba and does not affect its wider network. Iberia said it will continue operating its full summer schedule elsewhere, offering a record 21.4 million seats across its global routes.
