FAA extends ban on US flights in Haiti’s airspace until September 2026

PORT-AU-PRINCE — The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has extended its ban on certain American flight operations in Haiti’s airspace through Sept. 3, 2026, citing ongoing security risks tied to gang violence.

In a notice issued March 2, the FAA prohibited U.S. Airlines, U.S. registered aircrfats and pilots licensed by the agency from flying below 10,000 feet over large sections of Haiti’s territory and airspace. Officials said the measure was taken because of “safety-of-flight risks associated with ongoing instability.”

The ban applies to airspace stretching across southern and northern Haiti, including a roughly 15-nautical-mile radius around parts of the capital and near the Dominican Republic border. 

“This NOTAM [Notice to Air Missions] applies to all U.S. air carriers and commercial operators,” the FAA said. “It also covers all individuals exercising the privileges of an airman certificate issued by the FAA.”

The extension of the restriction was first imposed in November 2024 after gunfire struck multiple aircraft near Port-au-Prince. Since then, the FAA has renewed the measure every six months following reviews of security conditions on the ground.

Limited exceptions, commercial flights halted since 2024

The FAA said exceptions apply to U.S.-registered aircraft operated by foreign carriers and to foreign airlines using U.S.-registered planes. Government, humanitarian and emergency missions may request special authorization through the FAA’s Washington Operations Center. Emergency deviations are also permitted if necessary for flight safety.

Flights operating outside the designated risk areas are not subject to the ban.

Since November 2024, most U.S. commercial flights have been suspended at Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince. The airport is located in an area heavily affected by armed groups, with gangs controlling large portions of the capital.

Airlines have demanded improved security guarantees before resuming regular service. The suspension has disrupted travel for Haiti’s diaspora and complicated humanitarian and business travel.

The extension comes as Haiti continues to grapple with escalating gang violence. Armed groups control an estimated 80% to 90% of Port-au-Prince, according to international assessments, and attacks have targeted roads, neighborhoods and key infrastructure.

Recent aviation incidents have heightened concerns. In February, a small aircraft operated by Agape Flights crashed near Jérémie, killing two pilots. Another aircraft made an emergency landing later that month, and charter planes have reported being struck by projectiles while approaching Port-au-Prince.

Despite the FAA restrictions, some carriers—primarily Haiti’s Sunrise Airways and Fort Lauderdale-based IBC Air— continue limited operations from Cap-Haïtien and Les Cayes to U.S. destinations. However, major U.S. airlines have not resumed regular commercial service to the capital.

The FAA said the restriction will remain in place while they continue monitoring security conditions in Haiti.

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