Published on: 2025-03-05

Intelligence Report: International flights can land at airport in Haiti’s southwest for the 1st time – ABC News

1. BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front)

The airport in Haiti’s southwest region is now ready to receive international flights for the first time, offering a safer alternative to the capital’s airport, which is affected by gang violence. This development is expected to boost the local economy and improve humanitarian aid distribution. However, the security situation in the capital remains precarious, affecting overall stability.

2. Detailed Analysis

The following structured analytic techniques have been applied for this analysis:

SWOT Analysis

• Strengths: New international airport runway in Les Cayes; potential economic boost; improved humanitarian aid distribution.
• Weaknesses: Ongoing gang violence in Port-au-Prince; limited infrastructure in the southwest region.
• Opportunities: Development of tourism and infrastructure; increased international engagement.
• Threats: Continued instability in the capital; potential spillover of violence to other regions.

Cross-Impact Matrix

The opening of the airport in Les Cayes may reduce pressure on Port-au-Prince’s airport, potentially decreasing the impact of gang violence on international travel. However, instability in the capital could deter airlines from expanding services to Haiti.

Scenario Generation

• Best-case: Stabilization of Port-au-Prince leads to increased international flights and economic growth.
• Worst-case: Escalation of violence in the capital spreads to the southwest, disrupting new airport operations.
• Most likely: Gradual increase in international flights to Les Cayes with continued instability in Port-au-Prince.

3. Implications and Strategic Risks

The opening of the airport in Les Cayes presents opportunities for economic development and improved humanitarian aid distribution. However, the persistent violence in Port-au-Prince poses significant risks to national security and regional stability. The potential for violence to spread to the southwest could undermine these gains.

4. Recommendations and Outlook

Recommendations:

• Enhance security measures in Port-au-Prince to stabilize the capital and protect international travel routes.
• Invest in infrastructure development in the southwest to support increased economic activity.
• Encourage international partnerships to bolster economic and security initiatives.

Outlook:

The new airport in Les Cayes is likely to see a gradual increase in international flights, contributing to regional economic growth. However, without addressing the root causes of violence in Port-au-Prince, the overall stability of Haiti remains at risk. Continued international support and strategic investments are essential for long-term development.

5. Key Individuals and Entities

The report mentions several significant individuals and organizations:

• Wynn Walent
• Hugh Aprile
• Leslie Voltaire
• Martine Villeneuve
• JetBlue
• Action Against Hunger