FAA Bans U.S. Flights to Haiti After Spirit Airlines Shooting Incident

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has imposed a 30-day ban on U.S. civilian flights to and from Haiti following a shooting incident involving a Spirit Airlines aircraft on November 11, 2024. The ban also restricts flights from flying below 10,000 feet in Haiti’s airspace.

On Monday, Spirit Airlines Flight 951, traveling from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Port-au-Prince, was struck by gunfire while attempting to land. The aircraft diverted to Santiago, Dominican Republic, after sustaining damage. A flight attendant reported minor injuries, but no passenger injuries were reported. American Airlines also confirmed that one of its flights from Port-au-Prince to Miami was hit by gunfire on the same day, though the plane landed safely with no injuries. A post-flight inspection revealed damage to the exterior of the aircraft.

As a result of the ongoing security concerns, American Airlines has suspended flights to Haiti through February 12, 2025, and JetBlue Airways has also paused its services to the country.

The U.S. State Department issued a warning about the escalating violence in Haiti, particularly in Port-au-Prince, where gang-related disruptions are affecting travel. The embassy cautioned that “armed violence” and efforts by gangs to block travel could continue to impact roadways, airports, and ports.

This series of incidents highlights the growing risks for aviation in Haiti, prompting the suspension of flights by major U.S. carriers and heightened safety measures in the region.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, cnbc.com