In a significant blow to Haiti’s already limited air travel options, American Airlines has announced the indefinite suspension of its Miami-to-Port-au-Prince route. Initially paused through February 12, the airline cited ongoing safety concerns as the reason for extending the suspension.
Safety Concerns Force Tough Decision
According to a statement provided to the Miami Herald, American Airlines will reassess the possibility of resuming flights in late 2025. This follows the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) restriction on U.S. airline travel to Haiti after reports of gang-related gunfire targeting three aircraft in Haitian airspace.
“American has made the difficult decision to suspend daily service between Miami (MIA) and Port-au-Prince, Haiti (PAP),” the airline’s spokesperson stated. “We are proud of our more than 50-year commitment to Haiti and will continue to monitor the situation.” Affected passengers will receive refunds for canceled itineraries.
Limited Air Travel Options
American Airlines’ exit leaves travelers with significantly reduced flight options. JetBlue Airways and Spirit Airlines also suspended services last month and have not announced plans to resume flights. As a result, Cap-Haïtien’s Hugo Chavez International Airport has become Haiti’s primary international gateway, as the FAA’s flight ban now only applies to airports in the capital.
Travelers departing from Port-au-Prince have faced high costs for private helicopter services or limited government-leased flights. Deportation flights from the U.S., however, continue. Last week, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security flew 70 deportees to Cap-Haïtien despite severe flooding and blocked access to other areas of the country.
Sunrise Airways: Haiti’s Last Remaining Link
Haiti-based Sunrise Airways is currently the only airline offering direct U.S. flights, albeit with limited capacity. Adding to the country’s isolation, airspace between Haiti and the Dominican Republic remains closed, further restricting international travel.
The indefinite suspension of flights to Haiti underscores the country’s escalating security crisis, leaving residents, businesses, and travelers increasingly isolated from the world.
