(MIAMI) — For Haitians benefiting from the Biden administration’s humanitarian parole program, the announcement that American Airlines will resume flights between Miami and Port-au-Prince on May 9 has provided a profound sense of relief and a beacon of hope. This news comes at a critical time, especially after months of escalating violence and instability in Haiti, which have severely impacted daily life and safety.
On January 5, 2023, the Biden administration announced its intent to provide “safe and orderly pathways to the United States” for up to 30,000 nationals from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. The new program, known as the Processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans (CHNV), allows eligible individuals from these countries who have a U.S. sponsor and pass a background check to live and work lawfully in the U.S. for two years under “humanitarian parole.”
The humanitarian parole program has been particularly timely for many Haitians, as Haiti has faced chaos for months following the assassination of former President Jovenel Moïse. This program has become a critical gateway for numerous Haitian beneficiaries seeking safety and stability.
The suspension of flights by American Airlines, Jet Blue, and Spirit Airlines in early March due to security concerns left many travelers, particularly those who had recently received approval, in limbo. This suspension created uncertainty about when or if they could depart. Beneficiaries residing in Port-au-Prince were particularly relieved by the news, as they had been hesitant to travel by road to Cap-Haitien in the northern part of the country due to the risk of being killed by gang members controlling parts of the route. Until recently, the Cap-Haitien International Airport was the only air exit option from Haiti.
The installation of the new presidential council in Haiti, which took place just a day before American Airlines announced the resumption of flights, marks a step towards stability and governance, offering a glimmer of hope for a more structured and peaceful future. However, the journey remains fraught with challenges, including the high cost of air travel. Initial ticket prices feature one-way main cabin fares capped at $705 and business class fares at $1,699, excluding taxes and fees. These costs represent a significant barrier for many, particularly sponsors and beneficiaries of the Biden administration’s programs. Reports of fares soaring as high as $3,400 highlight the desperate circumstances and the urgent need for more accessible transportation options for those at risk.
For those approved under the humanitarian parole program, booking a flight represents more than just travel; it is the possibility of reunification with family, access to safety, and the start of a new life in a stable environment. The resumption of flights is a crucial logistical step that supports the program’s goals, providing a direct route out of a crisis-ridden region.
Despite these high costs, the news of American Airlines’ operational restart brings a sigh of relief. It promises not only the movement of people but also the flow of supplies and aid back into Haiti, potentially easing the humanitarian crisis that has left over 5 million people hungry and in desperate need of assistance. As the community looks towards rebuilding and recovery, the availability of regular flights will undoubtedly play a fundamental role in facilitating these efforts, offering a lifeline that many have been anxiously awaiting.
By Dessalines Ferdinand
