A Spirit Airlines flight has been hit by hit by gunfire during its approach to Port-au-Prince Airport in Haiti on 11 November 2024.
The aircraft, an Airbus A320neo, conducted a go around before diverting to Santiago de los Caballeros Cibao Airport, Dominican Republic.
One flight attendant was reportedly injured during the landing incident.
Spirit Airlines NK951 Approach Incident
Spirit Airlines flight NK951, operated by an Airbus A320neo registered N996NK, was conducting an approach to Port-au-Prince Toussaint Louverture International Airport (PAP).
The aircraft was carrying out a scheduled service from Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport (FLL).
Following the incident, flight crew discontinued the approach and initiated a go around procedure. A diversion was then conducted to Santiago in the Dominican Republic.
Apart from minor injuries suffered by a flight attendant, there were no other injuries sustained by occupants aboard the flight.
The aircraft was subsequently grounded, before Spirit Airlines announced that it would suspend flights to Haiti following a further evaluation.
Spirit Airlines Statement
A statement issued by Spirit Airlines following the landing event provides confirmation of the situation.
“Spirit Airlines flight 951 from Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to Port-au-Prince (PAP) diverted and landed safely in Santiago, Dominican Republic (STI).”
“Following the flight’s arrival at STI, an inspection revealed evidence of damage to the aircraft consistent with gunfire. One Flight Attendant on board reported minor injuries and is being evaluated by medical personnel.”
“’No Guest injuries were reported. The plane has been taken out of service, and we are arranging for a different aircraft to return our Guests and crew to FLL today.”
“The safety of our Guests and Team Members is our top priority, and we have suspended our service at Port-au-Prince (PAP) and Cap-Haitien (CAP) pending further evaluation.”
Action by Other US Carriers
Following the incident, other US airlines have followed suit and similarly suspended flight operations into Haiti. American Airlines and JetBlue have both suspended flights into the country until at least Thursday of this week.
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