DOT Announces 20 Nonstop Flights to Havana

With the relaxation of the Cuban Embargo the Department of Transportation allowed airlines to apply for the opportunity to operate passenger flights between the US and Cuba. Twelve airlines applied for a total of 20 daily flights between the US and Havana. The follow table from the DOT’s press release shows the airlines and cities that have been tentatively granted the right to operate passenger flights to Havana.

US – Havana Routes and frequency

Can I now travel to Cuba?

Under the revision of the embargo with Cuba, US citizens are able to travel to Cuba under 12 categories as listed by the US embassy for Cuba:

• Family Visits
• Official business of the US government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations
• Journalistic activity
• Professional research and professional meetings
• Educational activities
• Religious activities
• Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions
• Support for the Cuban people
• Humanitarian projects
• Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
• Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or informational materials
• Certain authorized export transactions

While that is a pretty extensive list, it is made clear that tourist activities are still prohibited under the new relaxed provisions for travel. It should also be noted that if you do qualify to travel to Cuba under one of the twelve categories, US credit and debit cards do not currently work in Cuba, so you will need to be sure to have enough cash for your entire stay.

How to apply to travel to Cuba

In order to travel to Cuba, you must apply through the Office of Foreign Assets Control. The application requires you to list the category you are applying for and a description of proposed travel. After your application is approved you should be able to purchase your ticket. The list above is still tentative, but is expected to be finalized by the end of the month.

OFAC Application

I have always wanted to travel to Cuba because of the mystery around it. I have been told it is like stepping back in time to the 60’s and would love to experience it before it becomes too Americanized. I hope to have the opportunity to travel to Cuba in the next year or so under educational, religious, or maybe even athletic competition categories. One thing is for sure if I go you will come with me!

Have you been to Cuba under the new provisions? How did you find the application process to be?