American Airlines Resumes Flights to Haiti

American Airlines is set to resume daily service to Haiti from November 1. The airline, which halted flights to Haiti over a year ago, will offer nonstop flights from Miami to Cap-Haitien. This marks a return for American Airlines after pausing operations in Port-au-Prince and ending them indefinitely in December 2024 due to safety concerns. The Federal Aviation Administration had restricted flights to the capital following several safety incidents.

American Airlines had been the first major carrier to serve Cap-Haïtien’s international airport after its runway repair in 2014. Service ceased six years later during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prime Minister Fils-Aimé, who is currently in Boston to support Haiti’s soccer team at the FIFA World Cup, expressed optimism, stating their return to the tournament is a victory for Haiti.

The airline will operate a Boeing 737, offering 172 seats; 156 in the main cabin and 16 in business class. While Toussaint Louverture International Airport remains closed to U.S. airlines due to gang violence, Spirit Airlines had been the sole major carrier serving Cap-Haïtien until recently.

With limited U.S. commercial service, many Haitians have relied on premium fare services or alternative routes via Sunrise Airways, Turks and Caicos, and The Bahamas. Zed Airlines has also commenced flights between Miami and Cap-Haïtien. The Dominican Republic has reopened its airspace to facilitate flight resumptions.

“Haiti is the largest Caribbean market currently not served by a U.S. carrier.”

American Airlines emphasized South Florida’s vast Haitian-American community. Residents of New York City and Orlando will benefit from the airline’s connections. Besides Haiti, American Airlines is expanding its service to Venezuela with flights to Maracaibo.

Miami-Dade County Mayor Danielle Levine Cava welcomed these expansions, highlighting the economic and familial connections they create. American Airlines aims to maintain its leading status at Miami International Airport, showcasing commitment to connecting communities.

The airline services 100 destinations across the Caribbean and Latin America. American Airlines’ Miami hub strengthens their extensive network. Senior Vice President Juan Carlos Liscano noted the significance of the airline’s renewed offerings to Haiti and Venezuela.