Cubana aircraft refurbished in Russia flies Havana-Santiago route for the first time

The Havana-Santiago flight marked the debut of the Cubana de Aviación aircraft, which returned to the island after being refurbished in Russia. The plane touched down on Cuban soil just two months ago, and just last Friday, it completed its initial flight between the country's two main cities.

The Cuban airline itself announced the good news through its Facebook profile. “It is an honor to share with you the exciting news of the return of the TU 204 aircraft to our fleet. Thank you for your continued trust and support! We are excited about what the future holds and look forward to welcoming you aboard our flights with the TU 204 aircraft.”

"Fly with us and enjoy an exceptional trip to every destination!" Cubana de Aviación invited. It also published a video related to the aircraft's debut.

YOUR 204 for domestic flights?

This is already a recurring question among users, especially on Facebook. Many who read Cubana's post doubt whether this recently repaired aircraft will be used only for domestic flights.

La principal cuestión es que si se gastó mucho dinero en su rehabilitación, entonces, cómo se recuperaría ese presupuesto mediante vuelos nacionales. El avión regresó a la Isla con apenas 200 horas de vuelo, o sea prácticamente está nuevo.

Meanwhile, in the Facebook group "Cuban Aviation Lovers," a woman who traveled on the inaugural Havana-Santiago flight said it was a success.

The TU-204 has been out of service for seven years, four of them in Russia, where it underwent extensive maintenance. The aircraft returned to Cuba last September and is expected to fly not only to domestic destinations. It should be added to other Caribbean destinations in the coming weeks.