A Coral Gables-based charter aviation company has filed a federal lawsuit against Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez, claiming the revocation of its local business tax receipt violates federal law.

Xael Charters, Inc. filed suit in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida on Christmas Eve, Dec 24, 2025, after the tax collector’s office revoked its business tax receipt, an action the company claims jeopardizes its charter flights, including flights to Cuba. Xael Charters flies to Havana, Camagüey, Holguin and Santa Clara. It also arranges auto rentals for Cuban visitors and Miami residents can ship items to Cuba using the company.

According to the lawsuit, Xael Charters alleges the revocation violates the U.S. Constitution’s Foreign Commerce Clause and its due process rights, arguing that regulation of international aviation falls under federal authority rather than local jurisdiction.

Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez defended the action in a statement issued Sunday night, saying his office acted under authority granted by Florida law.

“As Miami-Dade County Tax Collector, my responsibility is to enforce the law and to protect the safety, security, and trust of the residents of our community,” Fernandez said.

Fernandez cited Florida Statute § 205.0532, which allows the revocation of a Local Business Tax Receipt when there are concerns that a business is operating in connection with the Cuban government without proper federal authorization.

Florida Statute § 205.0532 was enacted amid long-standing state and federal restrictions on trade and commerce with Cuba. Its intent is to prevent Florida-based businesses from operating in ways that could directly or indirectly benefit the Cuban communist government, which is designated as an adversarial regime by the United States.

“A private company has now chosen to initiate litigation,” Fernandez said. “While that legal process moves forward, my office will continue to enforce the law firmly, responsibly, and in accordance with established legal and administrative procedures.”

The case remains pending in federal court.