Spirit Airlines Flight to Haiti Hit by Gunfire Over Port-au-Prince, Miami Herald Reports

Incident Raises Concerns About Safety in Haiti

A Spirit Airlines flight from Fort Lauderdale to Port-au-Prince was forced to turn back on Tuesday after being hit by gunfire over Haiti's capital. According to the Miami Herald, the plane was struck by two bullets, one of which entered the cabin and struck an overhead bin.

Passengers and Crew Uninjured

No one was injured in the incident, but passengers and crew members were shaken. The plane landed safely at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, and passengers were deplaned without incident.

Haitian Police Investigate

Haitian authorities are investigating the incident. No arrests have been made, and it is unclear who fired the shots.

Concerns About Safety in Haiti

The incident has raised concerns about safety in Haiti, which has been plagued by violence and political instability in recent years. In July, the U.S. State Department issued a travel advisory for Haiti, warning citizens to "reconsider travel" due to crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping.

Increase in Gang Violence

One of the most pressing safety concerns in Haiti is the increase in gang violence. Gangs control large swaths of territory in Port-au-Prince and other parts of the country, and they are often involved in violent turf wars.

Political Instability

Haiti has also been plagued by political instability in recent years. The country has been ruled by a series of interim governments since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021. The current prime minister, Ariel Henry, has been unable to restore order to the country.

Advice for Travelers

If you are planning to travel to Haiti, it is important to be aware of the safety risks and to take precautions to protect yourself.

Avoid Travel to High-Risk Areas

The U.S. State Department advises travelers to avoid travel to certain areas of Haiti, including Cité Soleil, Martissant, and La Saline. These areas are known for high levels of crime and violence.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

If you are traveling to Haiti, be aware of your surroundings and stay alert for any suspicious activity. Avoid walking alone at night, and be cautious when taking public transportation.

Stay Informed

Before you travel to Haiti, make sure to stay informed about the latest safety and security situation. You can check the U.S. State Department's travel advisory for Haiti at travel.state.gov.