Copa Airlines today announced that as of May 1, 2010, passengers traveling to Cuba must have insurance coverage.  The new requirement was implemented by the government of Cuba.

The new rule applies to all tourists, foreign nationals and Cubans who reside outside Cuba.  

To be in compliance with the regulation, passengers must have travel insurance that covers medical services while they are in Cuba.

The policy should be obtained in the passenger's place of origin.  However, travelers who do not have the insurance policy with them upon their arrival in Havana can obtain a policy with insurance coverage and underwriting from Cuban insurance agents at the José Martí International Airport.

For further information as you plan your travel to Cuba, visit the Ministry of Tourism sites of Cuba at www.cubatravel.cu