American Airlines has made the decision to suspend all its flights towards Haiti Due to the increase in violence in the Caribbean country, a movement that will significantly affect international mobility and Haitian economy. The airline operated daily flights from Miami Towards the Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port Príncipe, one of Haiti’s main connections with USA.
Flights canceled to Haiti
The measure was announced after an armed attack on November 11, in which an aircraft of American Airlines It was hit by bullets while landing in Prince port.
Although no injured were reported, the incident put the security of the passengers and crewforcing the airline to indefinitely suspend operations in the country.
This decision leaves Haiti practically isolated from the air, especially after the removal of other US airlines such as Jetblue and Spirit Airlines. American Airlines has indicated that it will evaluate the situation in Haiti to consider a possible resumption of flights to the end of 2025.
United States – Haiti: Impact on Haitian mobility and economy
The suspension of international flights is deeply affecting the economy and mobility of Haiti. The initial 30 -day prohibition imposed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has spread due to persistent insecurity and will last at least until mid -February.
In addition, the closure of international and domestic airports by the Haitian government has left citizens with limited options and expensive To get out of the country, such as:
- Government flights by helicopter: exclusive and extremely high prices.
- Private Aviation Services: Costs that exceed $ 2,500 per person with restrictions on luggage.
- Flights from Hugo Chávez airport in Cap-Haïtien: A limited alternative that operates as the only international output point.
Air isolation has worsened the humanitarian and economic crisis in Haiti, where criminal gangs control much of the territory.
American Airlines cancels all his flights to Haiti at least until February 12.
The position of American Airlines and the regional context
Despite the suspension, American Airlines He highlighted his commitment of more than 50 years with Haiti, reaffirming that the security of his passengers and employees is his priority. Meanwhile, the airline is working on the reimbursement of tickets to the affected passengers.
On the other hand, USA He continues to deport Haitian citizens, even in the midst of the crisis. In recent weeks, 70 people were deported to Haiti despite the extreme difficulties in the country, including floods and blockages by armed bands.
What follows for Haiti?
The cancellation of flights to Haiti reflects one of the many crises facing the country, where violence, the lack of stability Political and natural disasters complicate any effort to restore normality.
Meanwhile, Haitians continue to fight for transport alternatives, although Costs and the Restrictions They make these options out of the reach of the majority of the population. The return of American Airlines and other airlines will depend on significant security improvements, a challenge that seems distant in the current panorama.
