Tuesday, July 29, 2025
American Airlines has applied for a major cut in Cuban travel routes by asking to reduce key routes between Miami and the Cuba’s main cities. The airline’s proposal, which is being reviewed by the U.S. Department of Transportation, is indicative of operational changes because of falling demand. With 2025 looming, U.S. tourists may soon find fewer flights to Cuba, one of the most historically and culturally rich destinations in the Caribbean.
Routes Affected, Fewer flights to Cuba’s Top Tourist Cities
In statements filed in March and again in June, American Airlines requested to sharply cut its services to Cuba. Eight daily round trips from Miami to Havana, for example, three of which might be eliminated on weekends and certain weekdays. Some days as many as four of these flights are cancelled. Flights between Miami and Santiago de Cuba will also be reduced and service to Holguín may be shut down on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. One of two daily flights to Santa Clara from Miami has been proposed for elimination.
Why They Are Making These Proposals
There had been a considerable plunge in passenger traffic and changes in market conditions, were the reasons why American Airlines decided to cut down on the schedule to Cuba. The move is necessary to allocate resources and keep a competitive presence in the U.S.–Cuba travel corridor. Other carriers have taken similar steps in the past; Delta axed JFK-Havana service in 2017 due to low demand and Frontier also cut its daily Miami-Havana service that same year.
Hurdles in Regulation and Restrictions on U.S. Travel
The country is still highly regulated by United States foreign policy even with scheduled air service. Tourism travel is not being allowed. U.S. people can only visit under certain categories – for family reunification, religious missions or educational activities, as outlined by the U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control.
Cuba’s State Sponsor of Terrorism, re-listed under Trump, still has the effects of impacting commercial flights as well as the U.S. and Cuban governments’ bilateral relations. Although the Biden administration announced limited relaxations in 2022 — including expanded visa services and use of more Cuban airports — the climate is still politically charged.
Cuba Traveler Safety And Visitor Requirements
A visa is required for travel to Cuba and and guests will need to adhere to entry restrictions. Travelers are advised to be alert for petty crime while in the country. Battery operated power supply is suggested as the black outs are quite frequent. Exchanging money at authorized banks or airports is doing it the right way and large amounts of cash have to be declared on entry.
Cuban pesos should be converted back to US dollars before leaving, as they cannot be converted back within the US.
What This Would Mean for Cuba Travel in 2025
American Airlines’ possible pullbacks would also mean fewer seats to Cuba for U.S. visitors in 2025. Though a final decision is not expected until after the regulatory process, reduced service could drive up airfares and make it harder for travelers to reach cities outside Havana. The change in service could affect families wanting to visit, tourists and mission groups.
The latest news also highlights the intricate relationship between the logistics of air travel, consumer demand and the continuing diplomatic posture from the U.S. toward Cuba.
Last Call, Cuba Travel Plans Could Change If American Airlines Moves Ahead With Cuts
If American Airlines cuts service, flights from the United States to Cuba could become even more constrained throughout 2025. Travelers are advised to remain vigilant with the situation and to confirm that the purpose of their travel is consistent with U.S. regulations. While the future of U.S. tourism to Cuba hangs somewhat in the balance due to American Airlines’ re-evaluation of its operational footprint in the region, the island’s tourism sector adapts to changing economic and political circumstances.
