Photo by David Cogswell
If they haven't done so already, expect U.S. airlines to begin the process of flying to Cuba by the time you finish reading this story.
But, a note of caution - don't expect to open a new window on your computer and book a flight to Havana.
Here's what you need to know as far as commercial airline travel to Cuba is concerned in the wake of today's news that travel and trade restrictions with the Caribbean island have been lifted by the Obama administration.
I'm ready to go! Let's do this!
Hold your horses. Although the restrictions are officially being lifted on Friday by the U.S. government, don't expect to catch a Saturday morning flight.
Why not?
Well, although airlines and travel agents will now be able to fly to Cuba and book tours without having to obtain special licences, a few things have to happen first.
Like?
Like a civil aviation agreement between the two countries, first of all.
What's that?
A legal document between two countries in which they agree to provide safety and security, and all necessary assistance, of the other's commercial aircraft. To be frank, this is just going to be a formality. Both governments want free trade and tourism and it is likely to happen expeditiously.
What airlines will fly to Cuba?
None have come right out and said they will pursue routes to Cuba, but that's just playing it close to the vest. They ALL want to fly to Cuba if it's financially advantageous, and it should be.
A few good bets would be American Airlines, which has a hub in Miami and has flown charter flights to Cuba for 15 years; JetBlue and Sun Country, which have also flown charter flights into Cuba; and Southwest, which is expanding its international profile and told ABC News today via a spokesperson, "Cuba is a good future opportunity we are studying."
But the sure bet seems to be United Airlines, which took the most aggressive stance following Thursday's news.
""We plan to serve Cuba, subject to government approvals, and look forward to doing so from our global gateways of Newark and Houston," the airline said in a statement.
I can't wait!
Well, again, hold your horses. The airlines could start flying tomorrow but there's still the question of, where's everybody going to stay? The hotel infrastructure isn't the greatest all over the island and it couldn't withstand an immediate influx of American tourists. This still will take some time.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
