U. S. airlines preparing to offer regular flights to Cuba

U. S. airlines are gearing up for regular flights to Cuba as the Obama administration pursues a deal to allow commercial travel between the two countries.

Such an agreement, which a White House official said Tuesday was under consideration, would expand travel options between the U. S. and Cuba without requiring Congress to lift five- decade- old travel restrictions. Airlines already have benefited this year from increased travel by Americans to Cuba, where the U. S. marked the reopening of its embassy in a flagraising ceremony last week.

American Airlines said Tuesday it would begin offering flights directly from Los Angeles to Havana, in partnership with Cuba Travel Services, a charter operator.

If the U. S. and Cuba enter into a new civil aviation agreement, American could operate regular service, without using a charter company.

U. S. President Barack Obama has called for increased travel and cultural exchanges between the two countries after announcing a plan to restore diplomatic relations in December.