Caribbean: Flight disruptions continue post-Irma

Event

Numerous airports remain closed in the Caribbean region following the passage of Hurricane Irma. The following is a list of closed airports with the expected dates of reopening (all times local), according to the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). 

United States:
•         Naples Muni Airport (APF); September 15 at 20:00
•         Key West International Airport (EYW); September 15 at 06:00
•         Marco Island Executive Airport (KMKY); September 20
•         Saint Thomas-Cyril E. King International Airport (TIST); September 20
 
Turks and Caicos:
•         Grand Turk International Airport (MBGT); September 25
 
Cuba:
•         Jardines del Rey Airport (MUCC); October 30
•         Abel Santamaria Airport (MUSC); October 30
 
Residual disruptions should also be expected in operational airports in the coming days, including in Saint Martin, Miami, Tampa, Orlando, and San Juan (Puerto Rico). 

Other transportation, service, and business disruptions are also to be anticipated throughout the region as recovery efforts continue. There is also an increased risk of water-and mosquito-borne diseases and decreased availability of medical care in areas affected by the storm.

Context

Hurricane Irma, a powerful storm, caused widespread destruction and at least 79 deaths as it moved through the Caribbean region September 5-10.

Advice

Individuals are advised to research conditions in the Caribbean prior to travel and to confirm all travel and hotel reservations. Individuals already in the area should be prepared for various disruptions (water cuts, power outages, blocked roads) as recovery efforts continue, to only drink bottled water, and to take measures to prevent insect bites.