United Airlines to Suspend Exclusive Flights to this Country

dailyblitz.de 13 hours ago

CHICAGO– United Airlines (UA) will suspend its only non-Florida route to Cuba, citing both seasonal demand and tightened US government travel restrictions. The affected service is from Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Havana’s José Martí International Airport (HAV).

The final United Airlines flight from Houston to Havana is scheduled for September 1, 2025. The suspension aligns with updated travel policies introduced under the Trump administration, which have significantly impacted travel to Cuba.

United Airlines Suspends Flights

United Airlines has announced it will temporarily suspend its Houston (IAH) to Havana (HAV) route beginning September 2, 2025. Currently, this is the only US-Cuba service operated by a US carrier outside of Florida.

The daily flights, operated by a Boeing 737-800, are being halted due to a combination of seasonal demand fluctuations and regulatory constraints.

According to a filing with the US Department of Transportation (DOT), United aims to resume the route by the Summer 2026 season.

The airline explained that traffic on the IAH-HAV route has always been “highly seasonal,” with low demand during off-peak months, making daily service financially unsustainable.

United Airlines referenced its granted DOT flexibility for seasonal route adjustments. In its filing, the airline also requested a waiver, citing similar approvals granted to other US carriers such as American Airlines (AA), Delta Air Lines (DL), and JetBlue Airways (B6).

The airline emphasized that preserving its authority on this route supports future competitive service once market demand improves.

Impact of US Travel Restrictions

This route suspension is closely tied to recent travel policy changes under the Trump administration.

The administration issued renewed warnings against tourism to Cuba and enforced stricter travel restrictions on Cuban nationals visiting the United States. These regulatory changes have had a direct effect on US-Cuba flight demand.

The renewed travel crackdown has further discouraged Americans from visiting Cuba, contributing to the overall decline in bookings on the route.

United Airlines noted that these conditions make it difficult to justify continuing service until a potential shift in demand or policy.

Limited Cuba Service

Despite suspending the Houston-Havana route, United Airlines will continue operating a weekly charter flight between Jacksonville, Florida (JAX) and Guantanamo Bay (NBW). This service, flown with a Boeing 737 MAX 9, will remain unaffected and highlights the limited but ongoing US–Cuba flight operations.

The company reaffirmed its intent to resume daily Houston-Havana flights no later than the beginning of Summer 2026, pending market improvements.

Until then, United joins other US carriers in scaling back services to Cuba amid a challenging regulatory and market environment.

US Advisory on Cuba

The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for Cuba (CU), urging travelers to exercise increased caution due to a rise in crime and frequent nationwide power outages.

Travel to Havana (HAV) and other regions remains legally restricted for U.S. persons under current regulations by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), and requires proper licensing. Unauthorized travel to Cuba can result in serious legal penalties.

Increased Risks and Legal Restrictions for U.S. Travelers

The U.S. government has updated its guidance for Cuba-bound travelers in light of worsening public safety conditions and critical infrastructure failures. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and vehicle break-ins are commonly reported, particularly in tourist-heavy areas. Moreover, violent crimes, including armed robbery and homicides, have been on the rise.

U.S. law prohibits travel to Cuba for tourism purposes. Persons under U.S. jurisdiction—which includes U.S. citizens, residents, and even foreign nationals within the U.S.—must comply with strict travel regulations. Travel must fall under one of 12 authorized categories, such as journalism or humanitarian projects, to be covered by a general OFAC license. Any other form of travel requires a specific license from OFAC. Violations may lead to fines or criminal prosecution.

Unreliable Power Supply and Infrastructure Strain

Since October 2024, Cuba has experienced regular power outages, sometimes lasting up to 12 hours daily in Havana, and even longer outside the capital. These outages affect homes, businesses, and essential services. While some facilities like hospitals and hotels use backup generators, fuel shortages severely limit their operation during extended blackouts.

Travelers are advised to plan ahead for power disruptions by:

Keeping mobile devices and power banks charged
Carrying flashlights and extra batteries
Storing nonperishable food and clean water
Preparing alternatives for medical devices and medications requiring refrigeration

Limited Civil Liberties and Embassy Access

In Cuba, freedom of assembly and speech are not protected, making participation in public demonstrations risky. U.S. citizens should avoid protests and politically sensitive areas.

U.S. Embassy personnel must notify Cuban authorities for travel outside Havana, which may delay emergency assistance to American citizens in the country. Travelers are strongly encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to stay informed and to ease contact during crises.

Essential Pre-Travel Preparations

Before visiting Cuba, all U.S. travelers should:

Confirm they have a valid OFAC license
Review OFAC’s travel guidelines (31 C.F.R. 515.560)
Prepare for power outages and limited infrastructure
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance, including coverage for medical evacuation
Check the CDC’s travel health notices
Review the Traveler’s Checklist issued by the U.S. State Department