U.S. Extends Haiti Flight Restrictions Through March 2027 as Gang Violence Continues

The United States is keeping flight restrictions over Haiti in place for several more months as gang violence and security concerns continue, particularly around Port-au-Prince.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has extended its restrictions on certain U.S. flights in Haiti until March 2, 2027. The latest restriction took effect September 1.

The restriction does not mean that all flights to Haiti are banned.

Instead, it applies to U.S. airlines, commercial operators, pilots operating under FAA-issued certificates and operators of U.S.-registered civilian aircraft. Those aircraft are prohibited from flying below 10,000 feet in specific areas of Haiti because of what the FAA describes as safety risks linked to ongoing instability.

The restricted areas include Port-au-Prince and parts of central and western Haiti. Flights above 10,000 feet and operations outside the designated areas are not covered by the restriction, according to the FAA. Certain operations may also be allowed with authorization from U.S. authorities, and emergency flights can deviate from the restriction when necessary for flight safety.

Why did the U.S. impose the restriction?

The FAA first introduced the restriction in November 2025, after gunmen opened fire on a Spirit Airlines flight as it was approaching Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince.

A flight attendant suffered minor injuries, and other aircraft on the ground were also hit by gunfire. Following the incident, the FAA began restricting certain U.S. aviation operations in the area because of the danger to aircraft and passengers.

The restriction has been extended several times as the security situation has remained unstable.

What does this mean for travelers?

For people traveling between the United States and Haiti, the extension is another sign of how Haiti’s security crisis continues to affect air transportation.

The measure specifically targets certain U.S. aviation operations and low-altitude flights in designated areas. It does not shut down Haiti’s entire airspace or automatically prevent every airline from operating in the country.

The FAA continues to list Haiti among the countries with active international security-related flight restrictions.

Meanwhile, Haitian authorities, local police and a U.N.-backed gang suppression force continue efforts to regain control of areas affected by armed groups. Gangs maintain significant control over Port-au-Prince and surrounding areas, contributing to the security concerns behind the continued aviation restrictions.

For now, the current FAA restriction remains in place through March 2, 2027, unless the agency changes or lifts it before that date.