FAA bans flights to Haiti after aircraft struck by bullets

The Federal Aviation Administration issued an order on Tuesday prohibiting US flights below 10,000 feet over Haiti for the next 30 days after several planes were struck by gunfire amid gang violence in the nation's capital.

The United Nations followed suit by temporarily suspending flights to Port-au-Prince.

American Airlines and JetBlue reported damage from bullets on Monday after post-flight inspections. A Spirit Airline flight attendant was also treated for injuries after gunfire struck a plane during a scheduled landing the same day.

The airport in Port-au-Prince is expected to remain closed until Nov. 18 and other flights will be rerouted to an airport in Cap Haïtien.

A weakening democracy in recent months has sparked violence in the nation's capital. Prime Minister Ariel Henry resigned in March, clearing a pathway for a transitional presidential council.

The governing body has condemned the recent uptick in gang-related terror and attacks on citizens as well as travelers.

“This cowardly crime, which threatens Haiti’s sovereignty and security, aims to isolate our country on the international stage. The perpetrators of these heinous acts will be hunted down and brought to justice,” the council wrote in a statement obtained by the AP.

Due to the violence, Haitians are struggling with food scarcity amid the nation’s instability.

The United Nations reported gangs have taken over hospitals and schools in Port-au-Prince and surrounding areas. Families are presently using schools as temporary shelters from the violence.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.