WestJet & Sunwing Vacations Cancel Winter Operations to Cuba Amid Fuel Shortage

WestJet Group has begun what it is calling an orderly winding down of winter operations to Cuba, cancelling all trips booked via WestJet, Sunwing Vacations, WestJet Vacations and Vacances WestJet Quebec effective immediately.

In a statement issued late Monday, the company says affected guests will receive communication with options, including refunds or flexible changes. In its FAQ section, it is advising clients who booked with a travel advisor to contact them directly.

The decision is in response to the developing shortage of fuel situation in Cuba and the latest travel advisory by Global Affairs Canada which continues to advise travellers to exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to Cuba.

WestJet says at this time, there are no safety or security concerns for guests who remain in Cuba.  The news follows that of Air Canada also suspending flights.

WestJet will will depart Canada with empty aircraft to support the organized return of guests currently vacationing in Cuba. All aircraft dispatched to Cuba will carry sufficient fuel to safely depart without reliance on local fuel availability.   

Last year, close to 900,000 Canadians visited Cuba, making it one of the country’s most important winter sun destinations. With Sunwing, WestJet, Air Canada Vacations, and Transat cancelling or reducing flights for the upcoming winter season, a key question now emerges: where will those travellers go?

Capacity across the Caribbean and Mexico is already tight, and there is limited availability at hotels able to absorb such a sudden shift in demand—particularly in markets supported by adequate and consistent air service. The result is likely to be increased pressure on remaining sun destinations, higher prices, and fewer options for Canadian travellers at a time when winter escapes are in high demand. If you live in Eastern Canada and hoping to get a winter vacation in you may be out of luck, or you will pay a fortune.

WestJet says the decision aligns with its focus to put guests and crew first and protect the integrity of its operation. Information regarding guest cancellations and next steps can be found at Guest Updates Hub.