FAA considers suspension of U.S. flights to Haiti

United States.- The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is set to decide whether to suspend all U.S. flights to Haiti after a November 11 incident where Haitian gangs targeted a Spirit Airlines flight attempting to land at Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince. The flight, originating from Fort Lauderdale, was damaged by gunfire, prompting the pilots to divert the aircraft to Cibao International Airport in Santiago, Dominican Republic. Following this, two other incoming flights were also diverted, and Toussaint Louverture Airport temporarily closed.

In response to the escalating violence, Spirit and American Airlines canceled flights to Haiti until at least Thursday, while JetBlue suspended its service through December 2. The U.S. State Department had already issued a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for Haiti but updated its warning following the incident, acknowledging the rising threat of gang violence affecting travel, including disruptions at airports. The U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince also reduced its services on November 12, citing ongoing violence in the capital and near the embassy, advising travelers to consider their personal security before attempting to travel within Haiti.