Cuban tourism allows entry of ultralight aircraft

Regarding the decrease in tourist arrivals to the island due to the government's obstacles imposed by US President Donald Trump and the current weakened relations with Canada, the main source of tourists, the leaders of this sector have opened the doors to some of their oldest restrictions. With the farewell of the last American-based cruiser, where the most tourists had entered in the last five years, Cuba has just allowed the entry of ultralight aircraft to the tourist bases of the Caribbean island. 

pricecupDismayed by this decline in Cuba's most important economic sector, the government lifted a long-standing ban, though of course with conditions. Although sky-high tourism is available anywhere in the world, it was previously prohibited in Cuba, but now it can be done, as long as the trip takes place in tourist destinations and the ultralight aircraft is piloted by a Cuban pilot. Cuba has not forgotten that this type of aircraft was used in the recent past for kidnappings and illegal travel to the United States. Therefore, it is being very careful with this. This attractive form of tourism will remain under constant supervision of the Cuban Aviation Club. 

This club will be responsible for issuing permits, adhering to regulations for renting ultralight aircraft on the island or for those arriving from a nearby island. According to the Ministry of Tourism, classic sporting competitions will first be held to sell this modality, and once it becomes acceptable or in demand, it will be used as a regular offering in the country's tourist destinations. Regarding the aircraft to be used for this purpose, two options were presented, from the Italian manufacturer Ferrari ULMs: the Tucán and the Trican, both with ideal conditions. The Italian instructors of that brand confirmed negotiations for this purpose. 

Ferrari also stated that the island is working with them to train new pilots for this tourist fleet. Pilots must graduate as guides for this type of activity, acquiring a diverse set of skills, including meteorology, air navigation, traffic, aerodynamics, and other vital regulations to ensure a pleasant experience. Some aircraft are also amphibious, allowing them to take off or land from the sea, adding an extra incentive to the adventure. It is believed that, in addition to the well-known three-axis ultralights, we will soon see the famous "trikes" with motorized hang-gliders. 

The Italian-made aircraft, with capacity for two or three people, will be included as an option in tour packages for round-trip flights to the northern part of the island. The island's main tourist destinations are located there, such as the cays and Varadero. Varadero, Cuba's number one destination, will be the pioneer for this type of option. According to Trip Advisor, Varadero was chosen as the second-best beach in the world, and its blue waters and white sand make the view from the sky a spectacle. Furthermore, Cuba's blue beach can combine other options with ultralight aircraft, such as diving, fishing, surfing, or visits to underwater parks. The plan is to later extend this option to places like Cayo Jutía, Cayo Guillermo, or Cayo Coco, and thus gradually to the entire northern keys of Cuba. The exact launch date of this option is not yet known, but the goal is to ensure that this option will not end this year without becoming an additional tourism option on the island.