Commonwealth_ Following escalating security concerns at Haiti’s main international airport, Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince, interCaribbean Airways has announced a temporary halt to its flight services to the city. The airline cited recent security issues near the airport as the reason for suspending operations and noted that the airport will remain closed until at least November 18, 2024. A recent incident forced a Spirit Airlines flight to divert to the Dominican Republic after gunfire struck the aircraft, prompting this announcement.
InterCaribbean Airways confirmed in a statement that it would temporarily pause all flights to Port-au-Prince, adding, “Due to security concerns in the area surrounding the Port au Prince Toussaint Louverture International Airport, the airport has announced the closure of the airport until November 18th, 2024.” The airline emphasized its commitment to passenger safety, explaining that it would continue to assess the situation in collaboration with airport authorities and security experts. “We are actively monitoring the situation and will update customers when we can resume scheduled flight operations,” the airline added.
The flight suspensions have provided passengers with options to manage their bookings during this period. Customers with direct bookings can choose to place their travel on hold or request a full refund from interCaribbean Airways. For passengers who booked their flights through travel agencies, the airline advised contacting their respective agencies to process any refunds or rescheduling requests.
InterCaribbean Airways’ announcement is part of a larger wave of disruptions in airline services to Haiti due to heightened security risks. In addition to interCaribbean Airways, Spirit Airlines and Bahamasair have also temporarily suspended flights to Port-au-Prince. Spirit Airlines took this decision after gunfire struck one of its planes as it approached Toussaint Louverture International Airport. Fortunately, the aircraft was able to divert to a nearby airport in the Dominican Republic without any injuries to passengers or crew. However, the incident raised significant concerns about the safety of air travel in and out of Haiti, prompting airlines to reassess their services to the country.
As a precautionary measure, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has implemented a 30-day restriction on U.S. airlines operating flights to Haiti. This restriction reflects the FAA’s ongoing assessment of the security situation, with the agency prepared to extend or modify the prohibition based on future developments.
The security situation in Haiti has been deteriorating due to a rise in gang violence, which has affected various parts of the capital, including areas near the international airport. Armed groups have increased their presence in many neighborhoods, leading to heightened tensions and an increase in incidents involving gunfire. The violence has disrupted daily life for residents and has raised significant concerns for foreign nationals and travelers. In recent months, these security issues have led multiple countries to issue travel advisories for their citizens, warning against nonessential travel to Haiti.
In light of the suspension, several airlines are working closely with Haitian authorities and international security agencies to evaluate the conditions in Port-au-Prince. InterCaribbean Airways, Spirit Airlines, and Bahamasair have assured customers that they are prioritizing passenger and crew safety, pledging to resume operations only when they can ensure the security of their flights.
The temporary suspension of flights to Haiti underscores the broader challenges faced by the country as it contends with mounting security issues that impact not only air travel but also the overall economy and humanitarian efforts. The Port-au-Prince airport is a critical link for both residents and international organizations working in Haiti. The suspension of flights may complicate the efforts of aid organizations and other entities reliant on air travel for logistical support.
