Tag: cuba

Abel Santamaría International Airport (Spanish: Aeropuerto “Abel Santamaría”) is a significant international airport that serves as the gateway to Santa Clara, the capital city of Villa Clara Province in Cuba. This airport derives its name from the Cuban revolutionary, Abel Santamaría. It holds particular importance as the primary entry point for tourists traveling to Cayo Santa María and other keys located along the northern coast of the province.

A noteworthy milestone occurred on August 31, 2016, when JetBlue Flight 387 made its historic landing at Abel Santamaría International Airport. This marked the commencement of regular commercial flights between Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Santa Clara—a significant event as it was the first commercial flight from the United States to Cuba in 54 years. The momentous occasion symbolized the thaw in relations between Cuba and the United States, opening up new opportunities for travel and cultural exchange.

However, in April 2020, Cuba suspended all scheduled flights due to the global pandemic. As the situation improved, Cuba gradually permitted restricted tourism to select cays, including the renowned Cayo Santa María. From July 1, 2020, visitors were once again allowed to explore these beautiful destinations, offering a glimmer of hope for the tourism industry.

In October 2020, an encouraging announcement was made: Abel Santamaría International Airport was set to reopen for regular commercial flights. This decision signified the gradual return to normalcy and the revitalization of tourism in the region. Travelers could once again experience the convenience and accessibility provided by the airport, connecting them to the captivating destinations of Santa Clara and the stunning keys along Villa Clara’s northern coast.

Jaime González Airport, also known as Aeropuerto Internacional Jaime González, is a prominent international airport catering to the city of Cienfuegos, located on the scenic southern coast of Cuba. Serving as the capital of the Cienfuegos province, the airport plays a vital role in facilitating air travel to and from this vibrant city.

Situated at an elevation of 31 meters (102 feet) above mean sea level, Jaime González Airport features a single runway with the designation 02/20. This runway boasts a smooth asphalt surface spanning an area of 2,400 meters in length and 45 meters in width (7,874 feet × 148 feet).

During a historical period marked by war, Jaime González Airport base adopted a discreet numerical identifier for its postal operations. To facilitate postal services, the Fleet Post Office, Atlantic in New York, New York was employed, and its corresponding address was designated as 317 FPO NY. Notably, the United States Navy employed the code word “ODOP” to refer to Cienfuegos during this particular wartime period.

Sierra Maestra International Airport, also known as Aeropuerto Internacional Sierra Maestra, is a regional airport catering to the city of Manzanillo in the southeastern province of Granma, Cuba. It is situated approximately 12 kilometers (7 miles) away from the city center.

The airport operates with a single terminal that handles both domestic and international flights. Notably, the terminal does not have air bridges, requiring passengers to utilize air stairs and walk across the tarmac to access the terminal building.

Sierra Maestra International Airport serves as a gateway to the magnificent Sierra Maestra, the largest mountain range in Cuba. The region is home to three expansive national parks: Gran Parque Nacional Sierra Maestra, Parque Nacional de Turquino, and Parque Nacional Desembarco Del Granma. Additionally, the airport provides convenient access to the picturesque south coast of the Granma province, where the only all-inclusive resort in the area, Club Amigo Marea del Portillo, is located near the charming village of Marea del Portillo, close to Pilon.

To accommodate increased traffic and diverse aircraft types, Sierra Maestra International Airport recently underwent a comprehensive remodeling project. The expansion program involved extending the runway from 2,400 to 3,000 meters and applying a second layer of asphalt. Furthermore, the airport acquired new mobile staircases, advanced baggage handling equipment, and other essential facilities to ensure efficient services for its passengers. Up-to-date air navigation and air traffic control systems were installed, and personnel received training to meet the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization, ensuring compliance with international aviation regulations.

Ignacio Agramonte International Airport (Spanish: Aeropuerto Internacional Ignacio Agramonte) stands as a prominent international airport situated in the heart of Camagüey Province in Cuba. Serving both the vibrant city of Camagüey and the charming resort village of Santa Lucía, this airport acts as a vital gateway for travelers venturing to this region.

With a rich history dating back to World War II, Ignacio Agramonte International Airport played a significant role during that time. From 1942 to 1944, it served as a strategic base for the United States Army Air Forces. During their tenure, they conducted crucial antisubmarine missions over the northern Caribbean, safeguarding the region from potential threats. Additionally, the base served as a vital hub for air-sea rescue operations.

During this period, Ignacio Agramonte International Airport also played an important role in postal operations. From January 1943, the United States Army Air Forces established postal services in Camaguey. The Army Post Office in Miami was designated as the mailing address using the code 2714 APO MIA. Simultaneously, the United States Navy utilized the Fleet Post Office, Atlantic in New York City with the address 617 FPO NY for their postal operations.

In recent times, Ignacio Agramonte International Airport faced temporary closure due to the unprecedented global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. From March to October 2020, the airport suspended its operations to ensure the safety and well-being of both passengers and staff.

Despite the temporary closure, Ignacio Agramonte International Airport remains an essential transportation hub in Camagüey Province. It continues to connect travelers from around the world to the vibrant city of Camagüey and the idyllic shores of Santa Lucía, inviting them to experience the rich culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality of this captivating region.

Largo del Sur Vilo Acuña Airport (Spanish: Aeropuerto Internacional Vilo Acuña) is a vital international gateway that serves the picturesque Cayo Largo del Sur, a charming coral island nestled within the splendor of Cuba. This airport is situated in the unique and distinct municipality known as Isla de la Juventud, which adds to its allure and allure.

Perched at an elevation of 3 meters (9.8 feet) above mean sea level, Largo del Sur Vilo Acuña Airport boasts a single runway with a smooth asphalt surface. This runway stretches 3,000 meters in length and 45 meters in width (9,843 feet × 148 feet), providing ample space for aircraft to take off and land safely.

However, on February 20, 2020, the airport encountered unexpected challenges when damages were inflicted upon its sole runway. This unfortunate occurrence necessitated the implementation of alternative measures for the transportation of tourist passengers. As a result, those traveling to and from Cayo Largo del Sur were temporarily redirected to return to the mainland via boat, ensuring their safety amidst the circumstances.

Largo del Sur Vilo Acuña Airport plays an indispensable role in facilitating travel to and from Cayo Largo del Sur, serving as a gateway for visitors seeking the unparalleled beauty and tranquility that this coral island has to offer.

Coco Jardines del Rey Airport (Spanish: Aeropuerto de Jardines del Rey) is a strategically located airport on the enchanting island of Cayo Coco, which forms part of the Cuban province of Ciego de Ávila. This airport derives its name from the breathtaking Jardines del Rey archipelago, encompassing the picturesque Cayo Coco.

In December 2002, Coco Jardines del Rey Airport was inaugurated with the aim of enhancing the travel experience for tourists visiting the island. Previously, visitors had to arrive at Máximo Gómez Airport, located approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) to the south. Notably, Coco Jardines del Rey Airport is unique in Cuba as it is partially managed by a foreign company—Aena and ECASA jointly oversee its operations. Annually, the airport welcomes over 200,000 passengers, with the majority being foreign tourists, particularly from Canada.

Tragically, Coco Jardines del Rey Airport faced severe damage from the devastating Hurricane Irma in September 2017. In response, authorities initiated a substantial renovation project to fortify the terminal against future weather events. The walls were reconstructed using concrete to enhance their resilience. Additionally, new stores were constructed, and a centralized air-conditioning system was installed. Following these extensive efforts, the airport proudly reopened its doors in early November 2017, ready to serve travelers once again.

The terminal at Coco Jardines del Rey Airport spans an impressive 64,600 square meters (695,000 square feet) and has a capacity to handle 600 passengers per hour. Travelers are welcomed by a range of amenities, including two VIP lounges, a convenient snack bar, a restaurant offering delectable cuisine, enticing duty-free shops, and a currency exchange booth. The airport boasts a single runway measuring 3,000 by 45 meters (9,843 feet × 148 feet) and is equipped with an advanced instrument landing system, ensuring safe and efficient arrivals and departures.

Frank País International Airport (Spanish: Aeropuerto Frank País) is the primary airport serving Holguín, a city located in the Cuban province of Holguín. The airport is named after the Cuban revolutionary, Frank País. Initially constructed in 1962 for military purposes, it later began operating civilian air services in 1966. The airport consists of a domestic terminal and an international terminal, with the latter being built in 1996 and expanded in 2007.

The history of the airport serving Holguín dates back to its inauguration on October 30, 1930. At that time, the airport played a role as one of the stops on the first airmail route in Cuba, which connected Havana and Santiago de Cuba. However, due to frequent foggy conditions, the airport closed a few years later, and operations were relocated to a different site near the present-day airport location.

With the growth of tourism in the Guardalavaca region during the early 1990s, there arose a need for a new international terminal. Canadian infrastructure company Intelcan Technosystems was commissioned to construct the terminal, which was completed in 1996. In 2007, the terminal’s capacity was doubled to accommodate up to 1,200 passengers. This expansion was carried out to alleviate congestion during peak seasons and included the addition of customs facilities and a new VIP lounge.

Frank País International Airport features two terminals, one dedicated to domestic flights and the other to international flights. The international terminal has the capacity to handle up to 1,200 passengers per hour and offers various amenities such as duty-free shops, restaurants, car rental agencies, and a VIP lounge. The airport’s single runway, spans 3,238 by 45 meters (10,623 ft × 148 ft) and is equipped with an instrument landing system. In front of the passenger terminal, there are six parking stands available on the apron.

Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport, previously known as Varadero Airport, is an international airport that serves Varadero, Cuba, as well as the province of Matanzas. Situated 5 kilometers away from the village of Carbonera, it is closer to the city of Matanzas than to Varadero itself. In 2009, Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport handled 1.28 million passengers, making it the second busiest airport in Cuba, following José Martí International Airport in Havana.

Constructed in 1989 and inaugurated by Fidel Castro, Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport replaced the old Varadero airport located in Santa Marta, which is now known as Kawama Airport. The airport derives its name from Juan Gualberto Gómez (1854–1933), a journalist, Cuban independence fighter, and advocate for black rights in Cuba.

The terminal building offers various shops catering to tourists, including those selling rum, cigars, T-shirts, books, carvings, and pharmaceuticals. These shops are located both before the customs checkpoint and within a spacious departure lounge on the upper level. Additionally, there is a smaller air-conditioned VIP lounge on the lower level.

Most of the ground handling equipment at Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport is imported from North America. While there are four jet bridges serving parking areas 2 to 5, air stairs are used for aircraft parking space #1 on the apron adjacent to the terminal.

In April 2020, Cuba temporarily suspended all scheduled flights. However, in October 2020, it was announced that the airport would reopen for flights with certain restrictions in place, creating a tourist “bubble.” Subsequently, the province transitioned to the “new normality,” and the airport resumed regular commercial flights, including services from Mexico and the UK.

José Martí International Airport, previously known as Rancho Boyeros Airport, is an international airport situated 20 kilometers (12 miles) southwest of Havana’s city center, Cuba. Serving as a hub for Cubana de Aviación and Aerogaviota, it is Cuba’s primary international airport and handles millions of passengers annually. The facility is operated by Empresa Cubana de Aeropuertos y Servicios Aeronáuticos (ECASA).

Located in the municipality of Boyeros, the airport connects Havana with various destinations across the Caribbean, North America, Central America, South America, and Europe. It is named in honor of José Martí, a revered patriot and poet in Cuban history.

In Cuba, private citizens are not permitted to own aircraft, as all aircraft in the country are owned by state-operated airlines or the military. Consequently, only government- and foreign-owned aircraft are authorized to utilize the airport’s facilities. As of 2020, Copa Airlines was the foreign carrier with the highest number of flights to José Martí International Airport, operating 34 weekly flights (approximately five daily flights) from Panama City, Panama, and Bogotá, Colombia.

The airport features three passenger terminals. Terminal 1 primarily handles domestic flights, while Terminal 2, which commenced operations in 1988, caters to charter flights bound for the United States. Terminal 3, which opened on April 27, 1998, as the International Terminal, offers modern facilities and jetways that were not available in the former international Terminal 1.

José Martí International Airport serves as a crucial gateway for travelers visiting or departing from Cuba. Its strategic location, comprehensive facilities, and efficient operations contribute to the connectivity and accessibility of Havana and the wider region.