Escalona told Prensa Latina in exclusive statements that although April 1 was the date approved for the resumption of flights with that important tourist destination in Cuba, there are still logistical arrangements that Russian aeronautical authorities must determine.

He said that the Russian aviation regulator (Rosaviatsia) is the one in charge of deciding the distribution of the seven flights approved between Moscow and Varadero among the interested airlines.

The diplomat added that the resumption of trips to that Cuban resort was announced very recently, so travel agencies and airlines need some time to prepare their promotion and sales operations.

However, he confirmed the Russian market’s demand for this tourist destination, and the interest of local companies such as Aeroflot, AZUR Air, NordWind and Royal Flight in flying to that resort, and noted that Varadero is ready to welcome tourists with optimal epidemiological security and comfort.

Escalona highlighted the importance of the presence of a Cuban delegation at Moscow’s International Tourism Fair for the resumption of flights between Moscow and Varadero, in addition to the resumption of Aeroflot flights to Cuba.

He estimated that, with these flights, between 2,500 and 3,000 Russian tourists will travel to that western Cuban resort every week.

He warned that in order to travel to Cuba, Russian tourists must comply with Covid-19 protocols established by both countries. They will have to submit a negative PRC test done less than 72 hours before taking the flight and must be tested again upon arrival in Cuba.

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