Air Canada suspends flights to Cuba amid political and economic uncertainty

Air Canada announced on Friday that it is suspending all flights to Cuba indefinitely, citing “political and economic uncertainty” on the island. The airline said the decision follows recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump about seeking to “take control” of Cuba.

The suspension affects Canadian tourists, who previously made up a large share of foreign visitors to Cuba. The move comes as the island endures a severe energy and humanitarian crisis: a U.S. fuel embargo that has limited diesel supplies, leading to power outages lasting up to 22 hours a day and water shortages. Canadian hotel operator Blue Diamond Resorts recently closed 62 of its Cuban properties. Cuba now relies heavily on aid shipments, particularly from Mexico and China.

“Due to the political and economic uncertainty that prevails in Cuba, Air Canada suspends its flights until further notice,” the carrier said in its statement.