Nicaro Airport

The airport's closure was due to economic reasons, directly linked to the permanent shutdown of the 'Comandante René Ramos Latour' nickel processing plant in Nicaro. This massive industrial complex was the airport's primary source of traffic and its sole reason for existence. The plant, which had been in operation since World War II, was closed in 2012 due to technological obsolescence, high energy consumption, and declining profitability. With the plant's closure, the demand for passenger and cargo flights to the remote town ceased, making the airport economically unviable.

The airport is completely closed, abandoned, and in a state of decay. Analysis of recent satellite imagery shows the single asphalt runway is severely deteriorated, with significant cracking, faded markings, and encroaching vegetation. Portions of the runway and taxiways appear to be used informally as local access roads. Any remaining buildings, such as a small terminal or hangar, are derelict. The site is not maintained and is unsuitable for any aviation activities.

Nicaro Airport (official ICAO: MUNC) was historically significant as the dedicated airfield for the Nicaro Nickel Company plant. The plant was originally built by the United States government during World War II to secure a strategic supply of nickel for the war effort. The airport was essential for transporting American and Cuban engineers, technicians, executives, and high-priority equipment to the relatively isolated location. After the Cuban Revolution in 1959, the plant and airport were nationalized. The airport continued to be a vital transportation link, supporting one of Cuba's most important industrial assets. It primarily handled domestic flights, likely operated by Cubana de Aviación or Aerocaribbean, connecting workers and officials from Havana and other Cuban cities, as well as general aviation and charter services related to the plant's operations.

There are no known plans or credible prospects for reopening Nicaro Airport. The fundamental economic driver for the airport—the nickel plant—has been dismantled. Without a major new industrial or large-scale tourism development in the immediate vicinity of Nicaro, there is no justification for reactivating the airfield. The aviation needs of the wider Holguín province are adequately served by the Frank País International Airport (HOG) in Holguín, which handles both international and domestic traffic.