US Halts Flights to Haiti After Aircraft Targeted in Violent Attacks

November 13, 2024

The United States has suspended all flights to Haiti for one month, responding to a wave of violent incidents, including attacks on U.S. commercial aircraft, that have underscored the perilous conditions in the country. The halt in air travel reflects escalating concerns over the safety of American carriers and passengers as armed groups exert growing control over critical areas, including around Haiti’s main airport in Port-au-Prince.

The decision to suspend flights came after all three U.S. airlines with routes to Haiti – American Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and Spirit Airlines – independently halted service in response to gunfire targeting their aircraft. American Airlines announced that one of its planes, Flight 819, was struck by a bullet after departing Port-au-Prince. The damage was discovered upon arrival in Miami, during a routine post-flight inspection.

JetBlue Airways faced a similar incident with Flight 634. After landing in New York, bullet damage was found, adding to fears about the safety of aircraft operating in Haitian airspace. The most severe incident, however, involved Spirit Airlines Flight 951, which encountered gunfire while attempting to land in Port-au-Prince. After taking evasive measures, the flight was diverted to Santiago Airport in the Dominican Republic, where it landed safely.

These attacks highlight the risks of operating in and out of Port-au-Prince’s Toussaint Louverture International Airport, where gangs have increasingly asserted control over transportation routes and surrounding areas. In response to these incidents, the U.S. Department of State elevated its travel advisory to Level 4, advising U.S. citizens against any travel to Haiti due to “severe security risks and civil unrest.”

The suspension affects not only those with personal or business ties to Haiti but also humanitarian groups that rely on commercial flights to deliver essential aid. The U.S. government has expressed concern for these groups and is coordinating with international partners to evaluate safe alternatives for delivering critical supplies.

International organizations, including the United Nations, have warned of a worsening humanitarian crisis in Haiti, where nearly half the population faces acute food insecurity. With gang-related violence disrupting supply routes, access to food and healthcare has become increasingly limited in many regions. Members of the U.S. Congress have also called for enhanced humanitarian support as well as potential assistance to the Haitian government in stabilizing the country.

The temporary suspension of U.S. flights is expected to last for 30 days, with officials closely monitoring the situation to determine whether travel can resume safely. Meanwhile, the U.S. continues to emphasize the need for international support and engagement to address Haiti’s escalating security and humanitarian challenges.