The incident underscores the deteriorating security situation in Haiti, where armed gangs have increasingly disrupted travel and safety.
The response from airlines indicates a growing concern over operational safety in regions experiencing civil unrest.
If the security situation in Haiti does not improve, more airlines may suspend flights, further isolating the country.
Continued violence may lead to increased advisories from the U.S. State Department, discouraging travel to Haiti altogether.
A Spirit Airlines flight from Fort Lauderdale to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, was struck by gunfire on November 11, 2024, resulting in minor injuries to a flight attendant. The aircraft was diverted to Santiago, Dominican Republic, where it landed safely. Following the incident, Spirit Airlines announced a temporary suspension of its services to Haiti while assessing the situation. American Airlines also suspended its Miami to Port-au-Prince flights, citing safety concerns. The U.S. State Department has issued warnings regarding travel to Haiti, highlighting ongoing gang violence and civil unrest in the country, which has been exacerbated since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021.
