In one harrowing incident for passengers and crew alike, a Spirit Airlines flight from Fort Lauderdale to Port-au-Prince was struck with gunfire while attempting to land at Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Haiti. The incident forced the pilot to make an emergency diversion to Santiago, Dominican Republic. None of the passengers were injured in the incident, but a flight attendant suffered minor injuries and is receiving medical attention.
The aircraft reportedly was struck by four bullets in its final approach into Port-au-Prince troubling escalation of the safety risks around the Haitian capital’s main airport. After the plane landed safely in Santiago, an inspection confirmed damage to the aircraft consistent with gunfire. Since then, officials have suspended all Spirit Airlines flights to and from Port-au-Prince to safeguard passengers.
The incident has suddenly brought more questions about the security situation in Haiti, already plunging into very serious and disruptive gang activities. In quick response, the Embassy of the United States in Haiti issued a security alert, warning travelers of increased risks associated with the airport and that local gangs may continue to target air travel and key transit points. An alert from the embassy underlines the volatile and hazardous environment of Port-au-Prince, encouraging Americans to show caution or to at least postpone non-essential travel.
Spirit Airlines claimed that it is relieved nobody was injured, and their priority is the safety of all passengers on board. Now they are in close contact with aviation authorities to monitor the developments and find out when the airline is possibly able to resume flying safely. Considering this incident, Spirit Airlines and other air carriers may impose additional security measures before reinstating trips to Haiti’s capital.
This unusual and serious security breach points to sometimes harsh flying conditions for airlines in certain areas. Until further notice, all Spirit Airlines travelers with trips scheduled to Port-au-Prince should check on resumed flights or alternative travel options.
