American Airlines resumes Haiti flights two years after aircraft shootings

American Airlines has resumed flights to Haiti for the first time in nearly two years, becoming the first major US airline to restore service to the country following a series of shootings targeting commercial aircraft in November 2024.

The airline launched daily nonstop flights between Miami International Airport (MIA) and Cap-Haïtien International Airport (CAP) on November 1, 2026, using Boeing 737 aircraft. The service marks American’s return to Cap-Haïtien after an absence of more than six years.

The inaugural flight was operated by an all-Haitian, Creole-speaking crew led by Captain Oliver Jean.

American, JetBlue Airways and Spirit Airlines suspended flights to Haiti in November 2024 after aircraft operated by all three carriers were struck by gunfire near Port-au-Prince.

On November 11, 2024, a Spirit Airlines Airbus A320 was hit by gunfire while approaching Toussaint Louverture International Airport (PAP). The aircraft diverted to Santiago in the Dominican Republic, where damage from multiple bullet strikes was discovered. A flight attendant sustained minor injuries.

The same day, bullet damage was identified on aircraft operated by American and JetBlue. The incidents prompted US airlines to suspend operations as armed gangs intensified their control over parts of the Haitian capital.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) subsequently imposed restrictions on US civil aviation operations in Haitian airspace.

Those restrictions remain in effect around Port-au-Prince, where covered US aircraft are prohibited from operating below 10,000 feet in designated areas. The current FAA notice extends through March 2, 2027.

Cap-Haïtien, located on Haiti’s northern coast, lies outside the restricted airspace and has continued handling international flights throughout the disruption.

The airport has become Haiti’s principal international aviation gateway, with services operated by carriers including Bahamasair, InterCaribbean Airways and Sunrise Airways.

American’s return provides another connection between Haiti and the United States primarily for the large Haitian community in South Florida.

“The connection between the United States and Haiti is incredibly meaningful, which is especially true in South Florida,” said Juan Carlos Liscano, American’s Senior Vice President of Miami Operations. “We know the critical role air service plays in linking countries and communities, so we’re beyond proud to reinstate such a consequential connection for so many.”

American began serving Haiti in 1971 and previously operated flights to both Port-au-Prince and Cap-Haïtien.

The airline said the restored service makes Cap-Haïtien its 100th destination in Latin America and the Caribbean, coinciding with American’s centennial year.

The carrier is also expanding its Miami operations, with more than 410 daily flights during peak periods serving over 170 destinations across 46 countries.

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