Date: 11th November 2024
Location: Port-au-Prince, Haiti
Aircraft: Airbus A320-200neo, registration N966NK
Flight Number: NK-951
Operator: Spirit Airlines
Flight Route: Fort Lauderdale, FL (USA) to Port-au-Prince (Haiti)
Passengers: 154
Crew: 6
Summary of Events
On 11th November 2024, Spirit Airlines Flight NK-951, an Airbus A320-200neo, was on final approach to Port-au-Prince’s Runway 28 when it encountered gunfire. The aircraft was struck four times, with bullets penetrating the fuselage and causing damage to overhead lockers. The crew immediately executed a go-around and diverted to Santiago, Dominican Republic, where the aircraft landed safely approximately 35 minutes later.
One flight attendant sustained minor injuries due to the gunfire impact. No passengers were injured. Upon inspection in Santiago, multiple bullet holes consistent with gunfire damage were identified. Spirit Airlines subsequently suspended flights to Haiti pending further assessment of the security situation.
Aircraft and Crew Information
The aircraft involved was an Airbus A320-200neo, a next-generation variant of the A320 family, featuring improved fuel efficiency and advanced safety systems. The aircraft, registration N966NK, was relatively new, having been delivered to Spirit Airlines in early 2023. Maintenance records showed it was airworthy and fully compliant with regulatory requirements.
The crew included an experienced captain and first officer, both trained in managing emergency situations. Their prompt decision to execute a go-around and divert to Santiago demonstrated sound judgment and professionalism under extraordinary circumstances.
Sequence of Events
Flight NK-951 departed from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) on a routine flight to Port-au-Prince. The flight proceeded uneventfully until its final approach to Runway 28 at Port-au-Prince’s Toussaint Louverture International Airport.
As the aircraft descended through approximately 3,000 feet, it was struck by gunfire. The fuselage sustained four bullet impacts, two of which penetrated the cabin, damaging overhead lockers. The crew immediately initiated a go-around and climbed to 17,000 feet to assess the situation. They communicated with air traffic control and decided to divert to Santiago, Dominican Republic (STI), where the aircraft landed without further incident at approximately 19:30 local time.
Upon landing, passengers and crew disembarked safely. Inspection of the aircraft revealed several bullet holes consistent with gunfire damage, including one that contributed to the minor injury of a flight attendant.
Security and Regional Context
Haiti has experienced ongoing political instability and escalating violence, particularly around Port-au-Prince. The region is known for significant security challenges, including armed group activity near the airport. While rare, incidents of gunfire near aviation operations have been reported in conflict-prone areas.
The proximity of the airport to areas of unrest increases the risk to aircraft during approach and departure. Airlines operating in such environments typically rely on security assessments to evaluate risks, but the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the situation in Haiti presents heightened challenges.
Investigation and Analysis
The investigation is being conducted by the Haitian Civil Aviation Authority (OFNAC) with assistance from Airbus, Spirit Airlines, and U.S. aviation safety authorities. Key aspects of the investigation include:
1. Nature of Gunfire: Preliminary evidence suggests the gunfire originated from the ground, potentially from unsecured areas near the airport. Investigators are working to determine the source and motive of the attack.
2. Aircraft Damage: Inspection confirmed multiple bullet holes in the fuselage. Damage assessment will focus on determining whether critical systems were at risk and how the aircraft’s design helped mitigate potential catastrophic consequences.
3. Crew Response: The flight crew’s decision to execute a go-around and divert was crucial in ensuring the safety of passengers and crew. Investigators are reviewing flight data and cockpit voice recordings to understand how the crew managed the emergency.
4. Airport Security Measures: The investigation will examine the security measures in place at and around Port-au-Prince airport, particularly regarding the potential for gunfire to reach aircraft on approach.
Safety and Operational Considerations
This incident underscores the unique security risks associated with operating in conflict zones or regions experiencing high levels of instability. Aviation safety agencies and operators are likely to consider the following:
1. Enhanced Security Assessments: Airlines may need to conduct more frequent and detailed risk assessments for operations in high-risk areas, particularly focusing on approach and departure paths.
2. Review of Operating Procedures: Operators may revise procedures to include stricter criteria for diversion or suspension of services when credible threats are identified.
3. Aircraft Safety Features: Airbus and other manufacturers may review how aircraft can be further designed or reinforced to withstand external impacts such as gunfire.
4. Coordination with Local Authorities: Improved coordination between airlines, airports, and local security forces is essential to mitigate risks in conflict-affected regions.
Conclusions
The gunfire encountered by Spirit Airlines Flight NK-951 highlights the vulnerabilities of aircraft operating in regions with significant security challenges. The swift actions of the flight crew averted a potential disaster, ensuring the safe diversion of the aircraft and the protection of passengers and crew.
While the exact source and motive of the gunfire remain under investigation, this incident reinforces the importance of robust security assessments, close coordination with local authorities, and enhanced crew training for operations in high-risk environments. Spirit Airlines’ decision to suspend flights to Haiti reflects a commitment to prioritising safety amid uncertain conditions.
Disclaimer
If you are the rightful owner of the photo and wish it to be taken down, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.
Our investigation reports are based on all the evidence and facts we have at the time of writing and posting. We apologise if any details are missed or are not fully accurate.
