Delta suspends regular operation to Cuba from October: low profitability and operational obstacles
Date: September 30, 2025
Primary source: Hosteltur; additional verification in CiberCuba and Caribbean News Digital.
Summary
Delta Air Lines will cease its regular operation to Cuba starting October 26, 2025, citing low route profitability and operational difficulties on the island. The airline does not rule out returning later and states that for now it will focus resources on markets with greater stability.
What changes exactly
Suspension start: October 26, 2025 (winter schedule 2025-2026).
Operational scope (according to DOT documentation):
- Atlanta–Havana (ATL–HAV): complete suspension.
- Miami–Havana (MIA–HAV): temporary reduction of frequencies by half during winter season.
Reasons: lower demand, high operational costs and regulatory/operational obstacles in Cuba.
Possible return: Delta leaves the door open to resume service if the environment improves.
Context
Delta had resumed flights to Havana in December 2016 after more than five decades without operating on the island, in the context of the diplomatic thaw of that period. In recent months it had already been adjusting frequencies due to falling demand and rising costs.
The adjustment adds to a general trend of capacity cuts to Cuba by US airlines: in recent weeks United suspended Houston–Havana and Southwest reduced Tampa–Havana, among other moves.
Impact for travelers
Fewer itinerary options and connections between the US and Havana during winter, with possible upward pressure on fares during peak demand dates.
Reaccommodations: If you have a Delta ticket on those routes after 10/26, check airline email/app for change or refund options according to current policy and operational notices. For travel requirements to Cuba (ETA, D'Viajeros, OFAC), consult Delta advisories before flying.
Why it matters
Cuba–US connectivity: the cut keeps the island below pre-pandemic levels and complicates trip planning for tourism, business and family reunification.
Market signal: the focus on routes with greater stability and profitability reflects how costs, regulation and demand condition air supply to Cuba.
Editorial verification note
Before publishing specific schedules in tables, validate in Delta's reservation system or GDS the final days/hours of each affected flight, as they may vary in operational deployment.
Sources
- Hosteltur (announcement and reasons)
- CiberCuba (dates and route detail with DOT reference)
- Caribbean News Digital (DOT approval and ATL/MIA breakdown)
