The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has prohibited U.S. airlines from flying to Haiti for 30 days following a series of violent incidents where gangs fired on multiple planes. The ban significantly disrupts air travel and humanitarian aid to the nation grappling with severe gang violence.
On Monday, a Spirit Airlines plane was struck by bullets while landing at Port-au-Prince’s airport, injuring a flight attendant and forcing the airport’s closure. Photos and videos showed bullet holes throughout the plane's interior, highlighting the severity of the attack.
Further inspections revealed that JetBlue and American Airlines flights departing from the capital on the same day had also been hit by gunfire. In response, American Airlines suspended flights to Port-au-Prince until February 12.
The attacks occurred during a surge of violence coinciding with the swearing-in of Haiti’s new prime minister, a process marred by political turmoil. United Nations spokesman Stephane Dujarric reported 20 armed clashes and numerous roadblocks disrupting humanitarian operations.
The U.N. has temporarily suspended its flights to Port-au-Prince, redirecting operations to Cap-Haïtien in northern Haiti. The capital’s airport will remain closed until November 18, complicating aid delivery and further isolating the crisis-stricken city.
This wave of violence underscores the escalating dangers in Haiti, with international efforts facing mounting challenges in providing support.
