Clearing Up Misconceptions About Flying to Cuba

Though U.S.-Cuba relations have improved, there is still much for business aviation operators to take into account before planning a flight. “There is a misnomer that Cuba is wide open,” said Kathy Self, director of corporate compliance at Universal Weather and Aviation. “It is still an embargoed country, and making sure that you have a proper license to travel to Cuba is important.” Attorney Jonathan Epstein said the rules of who can fly to Cuba can be complex. For example, if an aircraft is leased, financed or owned by third party, it may be prohibited from operating to Cuba even if it’s not a violation of law. “The concern of a financer may go beyond what the law requires,” he said.

Podcast Episode
The NBAA Flight Plan podcast, which ran from 2009 to 2025, provided an overview of important developments affecting NBAA members, and the association’s work to advocate for their interest. The archive of past episodes will remain available for your enjoyment. Please note that no new episodes will be released.