The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a 30-day ban on U.S. airlines and commercial operators flying into Haiti.
This decision follows incidents where three U.S. airlines reported gunfire hitting their aircraft over Haitian airspace.
American Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and JetBlue Airways each confirmed their planes were struck by gunfire, though all flights landed safely without passenger injuries.
American Airlines announced it is suspending flights to Haiti until February 12, after discovering gunfire damage to Flight 819 upon its arrival in Miami. Spirit Airlines and JetBlue also canceled flights, with JetBlue halting service until December 2.
The FAA’s Notice to Air Mission (NOTAM) prohibits U.S.-registered civil aviation operations in Haitian airspace below 10,000 feet, with exceptions only for emergencies and FAA-approved government flights.
Haitian-owned Sunrise Airways stated its flights remain unaffected by the ban.
Haiti has faced escalating violence, including gang-related disruptions to air and seaport operations.
Economist Kesner Pharel warned that reduced international access will deepen Haiti’s economic challenges.
The shootings came amid intense gang-police clashes and threats from gangs following the dismissal of Prime Minister Garry Conille.
Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader condemned the incidents as terrorism.
Haiti remains under a Level 4 U.S. travel advisory, reflecting ongoing security and political instability since the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise.
