Spirit Airlines Plane To Haiti Struck By Gunfire, Injuring Crew Member
A Spirit Airlines aircraft was struck by gunfire as it attempted to land in Haiti Monday (Nov. 11), resulting in major U.S. airlines canceling flights to the country.
An attendant on the flight from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Port-au-Prince, Haiti was also injured, a statement from Spirit obtained by NBC News confirmed. “One Flight Attendant on board reported minor injuries and is being evaluated by medical personnel. No Guest injuries were reported.” The flight was ultimately re-routed to the Dominican Republic. Upon inspection, damage consistent with gunfire could be seen.
The U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince believe the incident was a part of “gang-led efforts to block travel to and from Port-au-Prince, which may include armed violence, and disruptions to roads, ports, and airports.” Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince, Haiti’s main international airport, has since paused operations, CNN reports, with airlines including JetBlue and American releasing statements confirming they would be suspending service to Port-au-Prince.
AUSTIN, TEXAS – FEBRUARY 12: A Spirit Airlines aircraft undergoes operations in preparation for departure at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport on February 12, 2024 in Austin, Texas. Spirit Airlines shares plummet as the company continues grappling with financial woes and steep losses during its last quarter. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images)
The incident follows the swearing in of interim Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, who has promised to restore peace and hold elections, which the nation hasn’t done since 2016.
A United Nations helicopter was also hit by bullets while flying over Port-au-Prince just last month. Back in February, gang violence forced the airport and main seaport of the capital into closure, cutting off the population from vital supplies and aid.
