Sunrise Airways Announces Immediate Suspension Of Flights To Port-au-Prince Following Gunfire Incident And Growing Security Risks In Haiti’s Volatile Capital

Published on November 25, 2025

Sunrise Airways has declared that all flights to and from Port-au-Prince will be suspended immediately due to growing security concerns in the unstable capital of Haiti. The decision was made after one of its planes was hit by gunfire as it was approaching the city, underscoring the growing risks associated with gang violence and instability in the area. Flights will not resume until conditions improve and authorities certify that it is safe to do so, as the airline prioritizes the safety of its passengers and crew. This action highlights the mounting worries about flying into Haiti as the security situation worsens.

Sunrise Airways has announced a temporary suspension of all flights to and from Port-au-Prince, citing growing security risks in Haiti’s capital. The suspension, effective from November 23, comes as the airline prioritizes passenger and crew safety, ensuring that operations will resume only once conditions are deemed safe for commercial flights.

Founded in 2010, Sunrise Airways is one of the few remaining airlines operating in Haiti despite the ongoing instability that has gripped the country. The carrier offers both passenger and charter services, with international routes to key destinations such as Cuba, Grenada, Guadeloupe, and the British Virgin Islands. With its headquarters in Port-au-Prince, Sunrise Airways has become an important link for travelers seeking to connect with Haiti, a country that has experienced significant challenges due to political unrest and criminal activity.

Suspension of Operations and Flight Cancellations

On November 23, Sunrise Airways made the decision to halt all arriving and departing flights to Port-au-Prince until further notice. In an official statement, the airline indicated that flights would resume once the security situation improves and it is deemed safe for commercial operations. The suspension highlights the volatile conditions that have been affecting the Haitian capital, forcing airlines to adjust their operations to ensure the safety of all involved.

Ongoing Monitoring and Coordination with Authorities

Sunrise Airways has emphasized that it is closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with government and aviation officials. No risks will be taken, the airline assured, and its operations will only restart once local authorities confirm the restoration of safety in Port-au-Prince. The airline has pledged to work with affected passengers, offering options for rebooking, travel credits, or full refunds.

Travelers whose flights have been impacted by the suspension are advised to contact the airline for further assistance. While many international flights to Haiti have been curtailed in recent months, Sunrise Airways remains committed to providing updates as the situation unfolds.

Aircraft Targeted by Gunfire Before Suspension

The suspension comes after an alarming incident on November 23, when one of Sunrise Airways’ aircraft was reportedly struck by gunfire during its final approach into Port-au-Prince. The flight, which was arriving from the southwestern city of Les Cayes, was grazed by a bullet that damaged the fuselage of the aircraft. Fortunately, the gunfire caused no injuries to the passengers or crew onboard. This incident has raised serious concerns over the safety of air operations into Port-au-Prince, a situation exacerbated by the escalating violence in the region.

While the airline has not disclosed further details regarding the incident, local media have been reporting on the increasing frequency of such attacks as rival gangs vie for control of the airport and surrounding areas. This marked the latest in a series of troubling events affecting both local and international airlines operating into the capital.

Impact of US FAA Ban on Flights to Haiti

The situation has also drawn attention to the broader challenges facing the aviation sector in Haiti. In November 2024, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a ban on US carriers flying into Haiti after a series of gunfire incidents affected flights by major American airlines. This prohibition remains in effect, extending until at least March 2026, with no US airlines currently authorized to operate flights to or from Haiti.

The FAA’s decision was prompted by the growing danger posed by gang activity in the region, particularly around the Toussaint Louverture International Airport, which has become a focal point of the violence. This ban has significantly impacted Haiti’s ability to maintain regular air travel connections, making it more challenging for both business and leisure travelers to visit the country.

The Future of Travel to Haiti

As the security situation continues to deteriorate in Port-au-Prince, travelers are advised to remain cautious and stay informed about any further changes to flight schedules. With the ongoing gang violence and heightened risks to airport operations, Haiti remains a destination with significant travel restrictions. The suspension of flights by Sunrise Airways underscores the growing concerns about air travel safety in the region and the broader challenges facing Haiti’s aviation sector.

For those planning to travel to Haiti in the near future, it is crucial to monitor the evolving security situation closely. Travelers should check for updates from airlines and local authorities, and consider alternative routes if necessary. Despite the challenges, Haiti’s tourism industry remains resilient, and there are still opportunities for visitors to explore the country’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty, albeit with heightened precautions.

Sunrise Airways has immediately suspended all flights to Port-au-Prince following a gunfire incident targeting one of its aircraft, citing escalating security risks in Haiti’s capital. The airline will resume operations once conditions are deemed safe.

In the meantime, Sunrise Airways continues to monitor developments, hoping for a return to normalcy and the safe resumption of services to and from Port-au-Prince as soon as conditions allow.