BWI Service To Cuba Approved By Federal Government

LINTHICUM, Md. (WJZ) -- A major door between the United States and Cuba is opening, and it's happening right in Maryland.  Flights from America to Cuba are now allowed to leave out of BWI Marshall.

Kai Jackson explains why the Obama administration is making the move.

These are incremental steps by the administration to pave a road for better relations with Cuba, but some Cubans in America disagree.

It's news some Marylanders have waited to hear: charter flights will be allowed between BWI and Cuba.

"This would be an important benefit for BWI Marshall, as this region has [many people] who would be interested in travel to Cuba," said Jonathan Dean, BWI Marshall Airport spokesperson.

Travel must meet requirements, including having family in Cuba, educational, religious or journalistic reasons.

In 1999, the Orioles traveled to Cuba to play their national team.  That trip was heavily criticized and some Marylanders from Cuba are criticizing this plan.

"Those flights will not benefit our people.  It will benefit the Cuban government," said Marta Quintana.

Baltimore is one of eight new cities that will have flights to Cuba.  It's part of the Obama administration's efforts to reach out to the Cuban people.

Observers say Fidel Castro's revolution that overthrew a corrupt government during the 1960s became a product of the same corruption.  His brother Raul now runs the country.

Many Cuban exiles in America don't view the flights through rose-colored glasses.

"I think it is giving Castro the recognition that he wants," said Olivia Goldsborough.