FAA Allows Limited Flights to Haiti Following Series of Incidents Involving Gunfire
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has revised its flight restrictions for U.S. airlines traveling to Haiti, easing bans implemented after a series of alarming incidents involving gunfire.
On Wednesday, the FAA announced that flights over the northern region of Haiti, including the area surrounding Cap-Haïtien, are now permitted, according to a report from Reuters. This adjustment comes as the country grapples with ongoing gang violence that has disrupted air travel and heightened security concerns.
Last week, the FAA barred U.S. airlines from operating flights to Haiti for 30 days after three commercial planes were struck by gunfire. Among the affected carriers were major airlines such as JetBlue and American Airlines, which have suspended flights to the capital, Port-au-Prince, until at least February 12, 2025.
A Spirit Airline plane marked the third aircraft to be struck by bullets. The incident occurred just as the plane approached Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince. The attack injured a flight attendant and forced the airport to temporarily shut down.
The shootings are part of a surge in gang violence as Haiti swore in its new prime minister following a turbulent political process.
