US Airlines Suspend Flights to Haiti After Shooting

Spirit Airlines Plane Hit by Gunfire in Port-au-Prince

Passengers, Crew Reportedly Safe

Several major US airlines, including American, Delta, and United, have announced the suspension of flights to Haiti after a Spirit Airlines plane was hit by gunfire while landing at Port-au-Prince Toussaint Louverture International Airport on Friday, July 8, 2023.

According to reports, the incident occurred at around 8:30 pm local time, as Spirit flight 1922 was approaching the runway. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, and the plane was struck in the fuselage and wing.

Fortunately, all passengers and crew members on board the aircraft were reported to be safe. The plane was able to land safely, and the passengers were evacuated without incident. However, the incident has raised concerns about the safety of air travel to and from Haiti, which has been plagued by political unrest and violence in recent months.

Increased Security Measures at Airport

In response to the shooting, Haitian authorities have implemented increased security measures at the airport. This includes increased patrols by armed guards, as well as the use of metal detectors and baggage scanners.

However, the US airlines have stated that they will continue to monitor the situation and will only resume flights to Haiti when they are confident that it is safe to do so.

State Department Issues Travel Warning

The US State Department has also issued a travel warning for Haiti, urging American citizens to reconsider travel to the country due to the ongoing security concerns.

The warning states that "violent crime, including armed robbery, kidnapping, carjacking, and murder, is common throughout Haiti." It also notes that "political unrest, demonstrations, and roadblocks can occur at any time."

American citizens who do choose to travel to Haiti are advised to exercise extreme caution and to avoid areas where protests or demonstrations are taking place.

Call for Calm and Stability

The Haitian government has called for calm and stability in the wake of the shooting at the airport.

Prime Minister Ariel Henry said in a statement that "the government strongly condemns this act of violence and assures the population that all measures will be taken to ensure the safety of citizens and visitors."

The government has also appealed to the international community for assistance in restoring peace and security to the country.