12 Nov 2024 | 10:29 PM UTC
Haiti: Flights to and from US suspended through Dec. 12 after gunfire strikes two passenger aircraft near Port-au-Prince /update 1
US suspends all flights to and from Haiti until at least Dec. 12 after gunfire strikes two passenger aircraft near Port-au-Prince.
US authorities have banned all US airlines from operating aircraft at altitudes lower than 3,048 meters (10,000 feet) within Haitian airspace through at least Dec. 12, effectively prohibiting all air travel to and from the country on US carriers. The move comes after two US-flagged commercial aircraft were struck by gunfire near Toussaint Louverture International Airport (PAP) in Port-au-Prince on Nov. 11. Spirit Airlines (NK) flight 951 was struck by several rounds as it attempted to land at PAP, injuring one flight attendant; an inspection of JetBlue (B6) flight 935 from PAP to New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) revealed bullet damage apparently sustained upon takeoff.
Additionally, the Haitian government has suspended all flight operations at (PAP) through at least Nov. 18, and the facility is closed due to nearby gang activity. Authorities could extend this suspension, especially given the ban on US airlines from operating in the country.
While non-US airlines may continue to operate out of airports other than PAP, such as Cap-Haitien International Airport (CAP), several have voluntarily suspended service throughout Haiti. Bahamasair (UP) has suspended all flights to and from CAP, and other airlines, such as Sunrise Airways (S6), are experiencing significant disruptions nationwide as a knock-on effect of the closure of PAP.
Reconfirm or reschedule flight reservations if booked to travel to or from Haiti through at least Dec. 12. Do not check out of accommodations until onward travel is confirmed. Allow additional time to travel to the airport. Reconfirm the status of road routes before departure. Consider booking alternative travel arrangements if necessary. Maintain contact with diplomatic representation.
