**FAA Bans U.S. Civilian Flights to Haiti Following Gunfire Incident on Spirit Airlines**

In the wake of a harrowing incident that saw a Spirit Airlines flight struck by gunfire on Monday while attempting to land at Port-au-Prince's airport, U.S. authorities have imposed strict restrictions on air travel to and from Haiti. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced on Tuesday that all U.S. civilian flights to and from Haiti would be banned for the next 30 days. Additionally, the FAA has restricted U.S. flights from operating under 10,000 feet within Haitian airspace.

The incident that prompted this decision involved Spirit Airlines Flight 951, which originated from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. As the aircraft approached Port-au-Prince around 11:30 a.m., it sustained damage from gunfire, forcing it to divert to Santiago in the Dominican Republic. According to Spirit Airlines, one flight attendant reported minor injuries, though no passengers were harmed.

Adding to the alarming situation, American Airlines reported that one of its flights from Port-au-Prince to Miami was also struck by gunfire on the same day. Fortunately, the aircraft landed without incident and no injuries were reported. A subsequent inspection revealed that the exterior of the plane had been hit by a bullet. In response, American Airlines has suspended its flights to Haiti’s capital until February 12.

JetBlue Airways has similarly halted flights to Haiti amidst growing concerns over safety. The U.S. State Department has issued warnings to travelers, highlighting "gang-led efforts to block travel to and from Port-au-Prince," which could involve armed violence and disruptions affecting roads, ports, and airports.

These developments underscore the escalating risks and underscore why several airlines have opted to suspend operations to Haiti. The safety and security of passengers and crew remain a priority as authorities and airlines navigate this increasingly volatile situation.