Route Restart to Haiti
American Airlines (NASDAQ:AAL) disclosed that it will resume scheduled passenger service to Haiti on 1 November 2026, operating flights to Cap‑Haitien. This marks the first U.S. carrier to announce a return to the Caribbean nation after all major airlines suspended service in late 2024, leaving Haiti without any direct U.S. airline connections.
FAA Restrictions on Port‑au‑Prince
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has maintained a ban on commercial flights to Haiti’s capital, Port‑au‑Prince, since November 2024. The restriction was imposed after three U.S. commercial jetliners were struck by gunfire, and the FAA cites the continued inability of local security forces to prevent attacks on aircraft. The ban is slated to remain in effect through at least 3 September 2026.
Authorized Northern Haiti Operations
While the capital remains closed, the FAA has authorized flights to six airports in northern Haiti. This permission enables American Airlines to launch service to Cap‑Haitien, providing the only direct U.S. carrier link to the country at present.
Expansion in Venezuela
In a separate network development, American Airlines announced the addition of a second Venezuelan destination. Flights to Maracaibo are scheduled to commence on 14 July 2026, expanding the airline’s presence in the region.
Additional Context
The article, sourced from Reuters and generated with AI assistance, notes that Haiti is currently the only Caribbean nation without direct U.S. carrier service. No further operational or financial details were provided.