The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced on Thursday that U.S. flights would be permitted to resume at six airports in northern Haiti.
This decision follows a 30-day ban imposed on November 12, which restricted U.S. airlines from operating in Haiti after three commercial jetliners were struck by gunfire, including a Spirit Airlines flight that diverted to the Dominican Republic while attempting to land at Port-au-Prince International Airport.
The suspension of flights had stranded passengers globally and hindered the delivery of humanitarian aid, as even aid flights were grounded.
The FAA indicated that while the ban on flights to Port-au-Prince would remain in effect until December 12, American carriers and general aviation pilots could now operate flights to the following six airports in Haiti: Port-de-Paix, Cap-Haïtien, Pignon, Jeremie, Antoine-Simon, and Jacmel.
Haiti has experienced significant turmoil for over three years, following the assassination of its last president, Jovenel Moïse. This power vacuum has allowed gangs to dominate, controlling roads and ports and engaging in widespread violence, including killings and kidnappings.
The situation has deteriorated further this year, as rival gangs have united to attack police stations, liberate prisoners, and seize control of entire neighborhoods. According to the United Nations, gangs now exert control over 85 percent of the capital.