Flights to Haiti Suspended After Passenger Plane Struck by Gunfire

Following an incident where a US-origin passenger aircraft sustained gunfire damage during an attempted landing in Port-au-Prince, multiple airlines have halted their services to Haiti. Spirit Airlines Flight 951, originating from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was rerouted to the adjacent Dominican Republic, successfully touching down at Santiago Airport. While a flight attendant sustained slight injuries, no passengers were harmed during the assault, which marks the second such occurrence involving aircraft over Haiti’s capital within a three-week period. This event coincides with the inauguration of a new prime minister in the nation, which is grappling with a crisis characterized by pervasive armed gangs and increasing unrest. Alix Didier Fils-Aimé stated that his primary objective is “restoring security,” as reported by AFP news agency. Despite the nation’s “difficult circumstances,” he pledged to dedicate his full energy, abilities, and “patriotism at the service of the national cause.” The businessman, who unsuccessfully sought a Senate seat in 2015 and pursued studies at Boston University, was appointed by the country’s governing council following the removal of his predecessor, Garry Conille, who served for under six months. The Spirit Airlines aircraft was slated to arrive at Toussaint Louverture International Airport shortly before 12:00 (17:00 GMT) when it sustained the impact. Footage of the event, which has not been verified and was circulated on social media, seemed to display multiple bullet holes within the aircraft’s interior, specifically in the area occupied by the crew during ascent and descent. Spirit Airlines reported that an inspection of the plane at Santiago Airport revealed damage “consistent with gunfire.” The carrier further stated that the aircraft has been removed from service. Additionally, the airline announced the suspension of its flights to Haiti “pending further evaluation.” American Airlines and JetBlue, two additional US-based carriers, have likewise halted their flight operations to Haiti, with suspensions extending until at least Thursday. Haiti’s security environment has worsened over recent months. In October, individuals identified as gang members discharged firearms at a UN helicopter, prompting certain airlines to temporarily discontinue services to the Caribbean country. A policing mission supported by the UN, spearheaded by officers from Kenya, commenced in June with the aim of reclaiming authority from these groups. Spirit operates as a low-cost airline headquartered in Florida, providing services across the US, the Caribbean, and Latin America. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.