FAA Grounds Flights to Haiti Amid Escalating Violence

The FAA has prohibited U.S. airlines from operating in Haiti for 30 days after two jets were hit by gunfire. The notice highlights escalating security risks in the region. Armed gangs in Port-au-Prince have been targeting aircraft, prompting flight diversions and halts by airlines like JetBlue and Spirit.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced a temporary suspension of flights operated by U.S. airlines over Haiti, effective for the next 30 days. This decision comes after two commercial flights were hit by gunfire while traversing Haiti's territory, raising alarms about escalating security threats.

On Monday, a Spirit Airlines plane en route to Haiti's capital had to divert to the Dominican Republic after being struck, while a JetBlue flight returning from Port-au-Prince arrived in New York with bullet damage. In response, JetBlue has extended their suspension of flights to and from Haiti until December 2nd.

The situation in Haiti has been deteriorating, with armed gangs targeting aircraft. A U.N. helicopter was fired upon last month. Meanwhile, the newly appointed Haitian Prime Minister, Alix Didier Fils-Aime, has promised to restore security amid these tensions, following the resignation of his predecessor, Garry Conille.

(With inputs from agencies.)