Sunrise Airways domestic flights were canceled across Haiti in late November 2025 after a serious security incident near Port-au-Prince airport. The suspension affected internal air travel linking major cities and disrupted daily movement for thousands of passengers. Haitian aviation authorities and the airline acted immediately after gunfire struck one of the carrier’s aircraft during approach, prompting a full halt of domestic services tied to the capital.
What Happened in Late November
On November 23, 2025, a Sunrise Airways aircraft arriving from Les Cayes came under gunfire while approaching Port-au-Prince. Bullets hit the plane, though passengers and crew remained safe. The aircraft landed without injuries, yet the event raised immediate alarm across the aviation sector.
Within hours, Sunrise Airways announced the cancellation of all domestic flights involving Port-au-Prince. The carrier stated that safety concerns guided the decision, and operations would resume only after conditions improved.
Routes Affected by the Suspension
The cancellations covered several high-demand domestic routes that form Haiti’s internal air network. These routes usually support business travel, medical movement, humanitarian work, and family connections.
Main affected routes included:
- Port-au-Prince ↔ Cap-Haïtien
- Port-au-Prince ↔ Les Cayes
- Port-au-Prince ↔ Jérémie
- Cap-Haïtien ↔ Les Cayes (indirect disruptions)
Flights scheduled between November 14 and November 18 already showed repeated cancellations before the full suspension took effect, signaling growing operational strain.
Flight Cancellation Snapshot
| Route | Status | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Port-au-Prince – Cap-Haïtien | Canceled | Airport security risk |
| Port-au-Prince – Les Cayes | Canceled | Gunfire near runway |
| Port-au-Prince – Jérémie | Canceled | Crew and aircraft safety |
| Domestic connections via PAP | Halted | Operational pause |
Security Conditions Around Port-au-Prince Airport
Armed groups operated close to aviation zones around the capital throughout 2025. Roads leading to the airport faced repeated threats, and several violent incidents occurred near flight paths. The gunfire incident confirmed the severity of the situation and left no room for partial operations.
International carriers had already limited or paused flights into the capital earlier due to similar threats. The domestic halt followed the same pattern, though it affected local mobility more sharply.
Passenger Experience During the Cancellations
Travelers faced sudden disruptions, missed connections, and extended delays. Many relied on domestic flights due to poor road safety and long travel times.
Common passenger issues reported:
- Missed medical appointments
- Delayed humanitarian missions
- Family travel disruptions
- Increased reliance on risky road transport
Sunrise Airways contacted passengers through direct channels and provided options based on ticket type and availability.
Refunds, Credits, and Rebooking Options
The airline introduced flexible remedies for affected bookings. These measures aimed to reduce financial pressure on travelers during the suspension.
Available options included:
- Full refunds to original payment methods
- Travel credits for future use
- Free rebooking after service resumes
Passengers received guidance through customer service teams and official notices.
Effect on Haiti’s Domestic Connectivity
Air travel plays a major role in Haiti due to limited road infrastructure and safety concerns. The suspension widened the gap between regions and slowed economic activity.
Sectors facing disruption:
- Regional commerce
- Tourism within the country
- Medical transport
- Aid and relief logistics
Cap-Haïtien and Les Cayes felt the strongest effects, as air links usually shorten travel that otherwise takes many hours by road.
Government and Aviation Authority Response
Haitian aviation officials reviewed airport security procedures immediately after the incident. Coordination took place between airport management, national authorities, and airline operators. Flights remained suspended until authorities could guarantee safer conditions around runways and approach zones.
No official restart date was announced during November, and authorities stressed caution over speed.
Time of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Nov 14–18, 2025 | Repeated domestic flight cancellations |
| Nov 23, 2025 | Aircraft hit by gunfire near Port-au-Prince |
| Nov 23, 2025 | Sunrise Airways halts all domestic flights |
| Late Nov 2025 | Suspension remains in place |
How Travelers Adjusted Plans
With flights unavailable, passengers searched for alternatives. Many postponed trips, while others used charter services or ground transport despite risks.
Common adjustments included:
- Delaying non-urgent travel
- Combining road and sea transport
- Seeking assistance from employers or aid groups
Travel insurance claims also increased during this period.
Communication From Sunrise Airways
The airline used its website and customer messaging systems to share updates. Notices explained cancellation reasons and outlined passenger options. Clear messaging helped limit confusion, though uncertainty remained due to the open-ended nature of the suspension.
Long-Term Outlook for Domestic Flights
Domestic air travel in Haiti depends heavily on stability around Port-au-Prince. Without secure access to the capital’s airport, consistent service remains difficult. Industry observers expect gradual restoration once authorities regain control of surrounding areas.
Until then, travelers must rely on official announcements before making plans.
Practical Guidance for Future Bookings
Passengers planning domestic travel after November should take extra precautions.
Helpful tips:
- Confirm flight status close to departure
- Use flexible ticket options
- Monitor airline notices daily
- Keep alternative transport plans ready
The Sunrise Airways domestic flight cancellations in late November marked one of the most disruptive aviation events in Haiti during 2025. Safety concerns drove the decision, and passengers faced major challenges as a result. The situation highlighted how closely aviation operations depend on broader security conditions within the country.
