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The United States has moved forward with extending its ban on US flights to Haiti’s capital until September due to escalating gang violence.
Some shit you should know before you read: If you’re unaware, last year in November 2024, the FAA suspended all US flights to Port-au-Prince after three commercial planes were struck by gunfire while attempting to land at the airport. The impacted airlines included American Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and JetBlue, whose aircraft sustained damage from bullets. While no passengers were injured, the incidents raised serious safety concerns, prompting an immediate suspension of commercial flights.
What’s going on now: In an announcement, the FAA confirmed that they would move forward with extending the US flight ban to Port-au-Prince until September 8, 2025, citing ongoing security risks from armed gangs. The agency stated that these groups possess high-caliber rifles and machine guns, making low-altitude flight operations and aircraft on the ground particularly vulnerable. The FAA specifically pointed to gang attacks on commercial planes in November 2024 as a key factor in their decision, noting that the situation has not improved enough to safely resume flights. While commercial travel to six northern airports, including Cap-Haïtien, remains allowed, flights into Port-au-Prince are prohibited except for military, diplomatic, and humanitarian missions. US planes are only permitted to fly above 10,000 feet over the capital to avoid the risk of gunfire.
The ban has worsened Haiti’s economic struggles, as Port-au-Prince serves as the nation’s primary commercial hub, where many businesses rely on direct international travel for trade and tourism. With major airlines like American, Spirit, and JetBlue indefinitely suspending service, businesses that depend on air travel for importing goods or conducting transactions with foreign partners are facing significant logistical and financial setbacks. The ban has also impacted Haitian diaspora communities, as many rely on flights for family visits, medical treatment, and financial support.
This comes as the United Nations warns that gang violence in Haiti is worse than ever, with the UN human rights commissioner’s expert on Haiti calling it a “matter of survival” for many residents. As of now, gangs control up to 85% of Port-au-Prince. According to the UN, “The risk of the capital falling under gang control is palpable.” The crisis has led to over 1 million people being displaced.
