One year ago, Tampa International Airport began international flights to Cuba. The service, which has three charters, has offered five flights a week to Cuba.

Airport spokesperson Christine Osborn said the first year of travel to Cuba exceeded expectations with more than 34,000 passengers traveling to Cuba.

"In just one short year, we’re already the second largest gateway in the United States for flights to Cuba, so it’s been extremely popular, and we’re very pleased with the outcome," Osborn said.



Island Travel and Tours in Tampa boasts being the only Bay area-based charter service. Stephen Michelini, Governmental Relations Consultant for the agency, said the demand led the travel agency to expand.

"One additional flight to Havana has been added through Island Travel and Tours, so now there's service on Wednesday and Sunday," Michelini said.



For many years, travelers had to travel to Miami to get to Cuba. As result, many still don’t know the flights are available from Tampa - even one year later.



Those who are aware of it have taken advantage of the closer airport, saving time and money.

And as demand for the flights grows, more flights could be added.

"Service always expands with demand," Osborn said. "So as the demand continues to grow and our tour operators see strong bookings, that's certainly always a possibility in the future."

