As December approaches,
the aviation landscape between the United States and Haiti is undergoing significant changes due to recent security concerns.
In early November, multiple incidents involving gunfire directed at aircraft led to the suspension of flights by major US carriers. This article examines the current situation and explores which airlines are expected to operate between the US and Haiti in December 2024.
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Background of flight suspensions
This month, three US airlines—
Spirit Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and American Airlines
—experienced incidents in which their aircraft were struck by gunfire while operating in Haitian airspace. These events prompted the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to issue a 30-day ban on US carriers flying below 10,000 feet over Haiti, halting commercial flights to and from the country. According to Business Insider, The FAA’s decision was based on “safety-of-flight risks associated with ongoing security instability” in Haiti.
Impact on major US airlines
The suspension has significantly affected airlines that previously operated routes between the US and Haiti:
- Spirit Airlines: Known for its low-cost services, Spirit Airlines had regular flights to Haiti. Following the incident in which one of its aircraft was hit by gunfire, the airline suspended its operations in Haiti.
- JetBlue Airways: According to the New York Post, JetBlue also suspended its flights to Haiti after one of its planes was struck by bullets. The airline cited safety concerns and suspended all flights to and from Haiti through December 2, 2024.
- American Airlines: The carrier paused its daily flights from Miami to Port-au-Prince until February 2025 after discovering a bullet had struck one of its planes. The airline stated it would continue to monitor the situation with safety and security as top priorities.
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JetBlue and American Airlines flights to Port-au-Prince are still on hold.
Potential resumption of flights in December
With the FAA’s 30-day ban set to expire in early next month, there is speculation about whether flights between the US and Haiti will resume. The decision to restart operations will depend on several factors:
- Security Assessments: Airlines will conduct thorough evaluations of the security situation in Haiti. If the environment is deemed stable, carriers may consider resuming flights.
- FAA Directives: The FAA’s guidance will play a crucial role. Airlines are more likely to resume services if the agency lifts the altitude restrictions and deems it safe to operate flights to Haiti.
- Operational Readiness: Airlines must ensure that their crews and aircraft are prepared to operate in the region, considering any new safety protocols that may be implemented.
Airline specific plans
JetBlue Airways
According to Cirium, an avaition analytics company, JetBlue leads the pack with the most scheduled flights and the second-largest seat capacity. Its significant ASM figures suggest that the airline remains committed to serving this route despite the challenges.
- Flights: 104
- Seats: 16,848
- ASMs: 17,584,128
Spirit Airlines
The ultra-low-cost carrier, has the highest seat capacity among carriers, with 17,296 seats planned for December, according to Cirium. However, concerns about
Spirit’s financial struggles, including rumors of impending bankruptcy, cast doubt on its ability to deliver these scheduled flights.
- Flights: 92
- Seats: 17,296
- ASMs: 11,890,224
American Airlines
According to Cirium, American, which is traditionally a strong player on the Miami to Port-au-Prince route, has a reduced schedule compared to JetBlue and Spirit. The airline has paused operations until February 2025 but may reassess its decision depending on evolving conditions.
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American Airlines Suspends Flights To Haiti Until February After Finding Bullet Hole In Boeing 737 MAX 8
Flight data suggests the aircraft flew four additional flights until the airline performed an inspection.
- Flights: 62
- Seats: 10,664
- ASMs: 7,592,768
Sunrise Airways
This regional airline provides vital connectivity on smaller or niche routes. Despite its limited capacity, its operations are essential for maintaining air service between the US and Haiti.
Photo: Guerinault Louis | Shutterstock
- Flights: 46
- Seats: 4,462
- ASMs: 3,043,860
Key Metrics for December 2024
|
Airline Code |
Flights |
Seats |
Available Seat Miles (ASMs) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
JetBlue Airways |
104 |
16,848 |
17,584,128 |
|
Spirit Airlines |
92 |
17,296 |
11,890,224 |
|
American Airlines |
62 |
10,664 |
7,592,768 |
|
Sunrise Airways |
46 |
4,462 |
3,043,860 |
|
Total |
304 |
49,270 |
40,110,980 |
Challenges and Considerations
Security Concerns
Haiti’s ongoing security crisis is the primary obstacle to resuming normal flight operations. The FAA’s flight restrictions and incidents of gunfire targeting aircraft underscore the risks. Airlines will likely require explicit assurances of improved conditions before fully resuming services.
FAA Guidance
The agency’s current ban on flights below 10,000 feet over Haitian airspace expires in early December. Whether it will be lifted or extended remains uncertain, but it will heavily influence airlines’ ability to operate.
Financial Viability
Spirit Airlines reportedly faces financial difficulties, which could threaten its operational stability. Travelers may need to watch for cancelations or adjustments to their December schedule.
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A GlobalX Airlines A319 recently completed a trip from Haiti
What travelers should do
Photo: Robin Guess | Shutterstock
For those planning to travel between the US and Haiti, staying informed and flexible is crucial. Here are some key recommendations:
- Monitor Airline Updates: Airlines may adjust their schedules or issue cancelations as the situation evolves. Regularly check with your carrier for the latest information.
- Consider Alternative Routes: If direct flights are unavailable, connecting flights through third countries like the Dominican Republic or Canada may offer alternative options.
- Stay Updated on Travel Advisories: The US State Department provides updated travel guidance for Haiti, which travelers should review before making plans.
- Travel Insurance: Given the uncertainty, travel insurance with trip cancelation coverage is highly recommended.