First Charter Flight Lands in Miami Carrying U.S. Citizens Escaping Haiti’s Gang Violence
The Associated Press reports that a charter flight, commissioned by the U.S. government, has safely transported more than 30 U.S. citizens away from the escalating gang violence in Haiti, landing in Miami. The flight marks a critical moment amid the turmoil gripping the Caribbean nation.
U.S. State Department officials confirmed the arrival of the charter flight at Miami International Airport, emphasizing the urgency of the situation in Haiti. The flight was organized in response to the deteriorating security conditions, with the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince recently urging American citizens to depart “as soon as possible.”
Among the passengers was Avlot Quessa, a resident of Boston, who made the journey to Haiti last month intending to visit his mother for a week. Speaking to the Miami Herald, Quessa described the distressing scenes unfolding in his homeland, lamenting the violence and destruction that have engulfed Haiti in recent weeks. He expressed his deep concern for the plight of his fellow Haitians, emphasizing the emotional toll of witnessing such turmoil in his homeland.
Haiti’s main airport in Port-au-Prince remains shuttered due to ongoing gang attacks, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the country. Reports of aid supply looting have further underscored the urgency of the situation, prompting swift action to evacuate U.S. citizens from the region.
In response to the escalating violence, the State Department announced the provision of limited charter flights for American citizens, particularly from the relatively less chaotic northern city of Cap-Haïtien. However, logistical challenges persist, with officials unable to provide ground transportation to Cap-Haïtien, urging travelers to prioritize safety when considering travel options.
The State Department emphasized the importance of communication, urging U.S. citizens still in Haiti to utilize the crisis intake form on the department’s website to facilitate their departure arrangements. Additionally, passengers boarding the government-coordinated flights are required to sign a promissory bill agreeing to reimburse the government for the evacuation services.
Marie Lucie St. Fleur, 69, of West Palm Beach, expressed her profound sorrow at witnessing the turmoil in her homeland, highlighting the emotional distress experienced by many Haitian-Americans. Despite her longing to return to Haiti, she acknowledged the harsh realities that have forced her to seek refuge elsewhere.
Government officials in Miami are actively assisting the evacuees in determining their next steps, offering support and guidance to ease their transition. Meanwhile, the U.S. military has deployed additional forces to reinforce security at the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the need for concerted efforts to address the crisis.
