JFI Jets has become the latest charter service to begin operations to Cuba. The operator secured U.S. clearance for the flights as the U.S. government has been slowly reestablishing ties and easing restrictions for travel to the Caribbean nation. Secretary of State John Kerry recently raised the U.S. flag at the embassy in Havana and removed Cuba from its list of State Sponsors of Terrorism. Along with these moves has been the elimination of certain licensing requirements for travelers and operators. 

But U.S. citizens still must comply with certain travel restrictions and charter operators still must obtain U.S. approval and have Cuba authorization added to their Ops Specs. “Few private charter carriers have the necessary certifications to fly to Cuba presently and even fewer have the local knowledge and contacts on the ground that are key to executing a flawless trip,” said JFI Jets president David Rimmer.

JFI Jets is accepting requests for flights through the fall and winter but encourages would-be travelers to book as early as possible to ensure availability. The flights to Cuba must depart from a U.S. designated airport.