December 23, 2024
Following an attack on a World Food Programme (WFP) helicopter in Haiti, several American airlines have reassessed their services to Port-au-Prince. This incident, which occurred on October 24 when shots were fired at the aircraft shortly after it took off from Guy Malary Terminal, has heightened concerns over flight security. The helicopter, targeted by the Grand Ravine gang near the National Port Authority (APN), was carrying eighteen passengers headed for Les Cayes. Thanks to an emergency maneuver, the pilots managed to land the aircraft safely without injuries.
In response to these tensions, multiple airlines have suspended flights to Haiti. Spirit Airlines canceled all flights through Sunday, citing general safety concerns around Port-au-Prince airport. JetBlue also canceled flights from Fort Lauderdale on Friday, citing crew management issues, though it plans to resume service on Saturday. American Airlines, however, continues its regular operations without interruption, based on the latest updates from its security team. To address these challenges, Halo Solutions Firm S.A. has reached out to security teams from American carriers to coordinate information-sharing and reinforce flight safety.
The helicopter attack and the partial suspension of air services come amid escalating violence in Port-au-Prince, which has also affected armored vehicles belonging to the U.S. Embassy. These events underscore the growing instability, complicating air travel and humanitarian aid delivery, and further worsening living conditions for many already vulnerable families.