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Soon, you'll be able to fly from LAX to Cuba—if you can come up with one of 12 acceptable reasons to do so. The U.S. Embassy in Havana, Cuba reopened last week after 54 years, and today, American Airlines announced that they'll be offering charter flights from LAX to Havana starting December 12. This is the first time direct flights via Los Angeles to Cuba have been available since the restrictions were loosened. The flights are a partnership between American and Cuba Travel Services, and tickets will start at $899 per person, the L.A. Times reports.
Passengers will still have to provide their reasons for visiting Cuba, and it can't be tourism. There are 12 acceptable reasons, and they include journalism, visiting relatives or some sort of cultural exchange, such as artist collaborations, education or volunteerism.
When it comes to commercial flights, the proverbial ball is the government's court.
"We stand ready to offer scheduled service as soon as the U.S. and Cuba allow commercial flights," American Airlines senior VP Art Torno said in a statement.
American has been offering charter flights from Florida to Cuba since 1991. American Airlines also has flights from Miami and Tampa to Havana, Camaguey, Cienfuegos, Holguin and Santa Clara.
Related:
How To Go To Cuba Right Now: A Travel Primer
Havana Nights: Where To Party In Cuba
