JetBlue today announced it will launch its first scheduled flights to Cuba on August 31, 2016.
The airline said it is aimed at removing the high costs and complexity of travel to Cuba so that customers can instead get the most of their time visiting loved ones, arranging a unique cultural experience, taking care of business opportunities, or organizing their educational or not-for-profit organization group trip in compliance with existing US travel restrictions.
Here’s how to understand existing travel restrictions for US citizens traveling to Cuba.
“It’s a new day for Cuba travelers and one we have thoughtfully prepared for,” said Marty St. George, executive vice president commercial and planning, JetBlue. “We are proud to usher in a new era of Cuba travel with affordable fares and great service.”
JetBlue will initially operate flights on three routes between Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and:
- Santa Clara – Abel Santamaría Airport (SNU)
- Monday, Wednesday & Friday flights starting August 31, 2016
- Daily flights starting October 1, 2016
- Camagüey – Ignacio Agramonte Airport (CMW)
- Daily flights starting November 3, 2016
- Holguín – Frank País Airport (HOG)
- Daily flights starting November 10, 2016
JetBlue’s fares start at $99 one-way, include Cuban government-required health insurance and will be offered on an ongoing basis. JetBlue’s fares to Cuba offer the same amenities. Seats on the three routes are available for purchase beginning today for customers who meet government travel requirements.
“We are honored to partner with JetBlue as they launch this historic inaugural service to Cuba for Broward County residents and the South Florida Community,” said Mark Gale, CEO/Director of Aviation for the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). “We are very pleased to be offering the region’s first regularly scheduled commercial flights to the island nation in more than half a century, and providing our passengers with a wonderful and economical air service option between JetBlue’s gateway at FLL and Cuba.”
In addition to the service that is out for sale, JetBlue was also tentatively awarded flights between Havana and three U.S. cities – for a total of up to seven daily roundtrips between the countries – and will announce a start date and fares for Havana later this year.
All flights are subject to final approval by the Cuban government.
Here’s the Best Luxury Hotel in Havana 2016.
