Cubana de AviaciónCU

Cubana de Aviación is the flag carrier airline of Cuba and one of the oldest airlines in the Americas, founded in 1929. Headquartered in Havana, the airline operates from its main hub at José Martí International Airport (HAV), serving destinations across the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and limited points in Europe and South America.

As a state-owned carrier, Cubana has faced significant operational challenges due to the longstanding US trade embargo, which has restricted access to aircraft, spare parts, and maintenance services. The airline's fleet has been substantially reduced in recent years, with international operations significantly curtailed. Many routes previously operated by Cubana are now served by foreign carriers or have been discontinued entirely.

Cubana is not a member of any major airline alliance. The airline maintains a traditional full-service model on its remaining routes, though service standards and aircraft age vary considerably.

Carry-On Allowance

Cabin Bag:

• Dimensions: 55 x 40 x 20 cm (22" x 16" x 8")
• Weight limit: 5-8 kg (11-18 lbs) depending on route and fare
• Must fit in overhead bin or under seat

Personal Item:

• Small personal item permitted (handbag, laptop bag)
• Size and weight included in cabin bag allowance

Cabin Class	Cabin Bag	Weight
Economy	1 bag	5-8 kg (11-18 lbs)
Business	1 bag	8-10 kg (18-22 lbs)

Checked Baggage

Standard checked baggage allowances vary by route and fare class. Weight limits are typically:

Economy Class:

Route Type	Included Bags	Weight per Bag
Domestic Cuba	1 bag	20 kg (44 lbs)
Caribbean/Mexico	1 bag	23 kg (50 lbs)
Intercontinental	1-2 bags	23 kg (50 lbs)

Business Class:

• 2 bags included on most routes
• 32 kg (70 lbs) per bag

Size Limits:

• Maximum linear dimensions: 158 cm / 62 inches (length + width + height)

Excess Baggage

Excess baggage fees are charged in the currency applicable to your route (CUP for domestic, EUR/USD for international). Fees vary significantly by route and must be confirmed at time of booking or check-in.

Special Items

Item	Policy
Sports equipment	Subject to additional fees
Musical instruments	Contact airline in advance
Stroller/car seat	Free for traveling infants
Wheelchair/mobility aids	Free

Baggage policies may change. Confirm current allowances when booking.

Cubana operates a modest fleet with basic amenities. The travel experience reflects the airline's operational constraints.

Economy Class:

• Seat pitch: Approximately 30-32" (76-81 cm)
• Standard 3-3 configuration on narrowbody aircraft
• Basic recline seats
• Limited or no personal entertainment
• Meal service on longer flights

Business Class (select routes):

• Enhanced seat pitch and width
• Priority boarding
• Improved meal service
• Limited availability; not offered on all routes

Food & Beverage:

• Complimentary meals on international flights
• Light snacks on shorter routes
• Cuban coffee and soft drinks included
• Limited alcohol selection

Entertainment:

• No seatback screens
• No WiFi
• Passengers should bring personal devices and downloaded content

Fleet Notes: Cubana's fleet has been significantly reduced due to sanctions-related challenges. The airline primarily operates:

• ATR 72 turboprops for domestic and short regional routes
• Leased aircraft (when available) for longer international routes

Aircraft age and condition vary. Some scheduled services may be operated by partner carriers or be subject to delays and cancellations due to fleet availability.

Booking:

• Book through reputable travel agencies specializing in Cuba travel
• Confirm flight status 24-48 hours before departure
• Have backup plans in case of schedule changes
• US travelers must book under authorized travel categories (OFAC)

Payment:

• Many international credit and debit cards do not work in Cuba
• Bring sufficient cash (EUR preferred, USD accepted but with exchange surcharge)
• Cuban convertible currencies have undergone changes; confirm current monetary policies

At the Airport:

• Arrive early—check-in and security can be slow
• Havana Terminal 3 has limited amenities
• No priority lanes or lounges for economy passengers
• Bring snacks and entertainment for delays

Expectations:

• Service standards differ from major international carriers
• Aircraft interiors may be dated
• Flexibility and patience are essential
• Flight schedules can change with short notice

Alternatives:

• Consider other carriers serving Cuba: Air Europa, Iberia, Copa, Aeromexico, Caribbean Airlines
• Charter flights available from some origins
• Compare total journey time and reliability when booking

What to Know:

• Cubana has reduced international operations significantly in recent years
• Some routes shown in schedules may be suspended or operated infrequently
• The airline continues to face challenges in fleet renewal and maintenance access
• Domestic services remain more consistent than international routes

Information reflects 2025 operating conditions. Due to the dynamic nature of Cubana's operations, travelers should verify all details directly with the airline or their travel agent before booking.