First US commercial flight lands in Cuba in over 50 years

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON

The U.S. and Cuba’s ongoing detente marked a major milestone Wednesday when JetBlue Flight 387 touched down in Santa Clara, Cuba.

The flight originated in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and is the first Cuba-bound U.S. commercial flight since Washington and Havana moved to restore relations in December 2014.

Secretary of State John Kerry tweeted that it is the first U.S. commercial flight to Cuba in more than half a century, describing it as “another step” forward in restoring ties.

Among the passengers were U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx and JetBlue CEO Robin Hayes, according to The Associated Press.

Jubilation among passengers was evident on social media with Instagram user soulbphotos writing on a photo of what appeared to be the plane’s cabin and a Cuban flag, “Honor to be on the first commercial flight to cuba in over 50 years”.

Instragram user dsmission wrote on a photo of what appeared to be a JetBlue Cuba gift bag: “So honored to help @jetbluemake history today w/the first US commercial flight to Cuba in 50 years.”

While tourism to Cuba technically remains illegal under U.S. law, there are 12 wide-ranging categories that Americans can legally use to travel to the island nation. They include family visits, journalism, government business, religious activities and public performances.

Regular flights via American Airlines will start in September to Holguin and Cienfuegos.

The Transportation Department is expected to announce later Wednesday which airlines will fly directly to Havana.