In a bid to decentralize air travel and boost regional development, Haiti has unveiled a newly modernized international airport in Les Cayes, signaling a shift toward greater accessibility beyond the capital, Port-au-Prince.
The upgraded facility, Antoine Simon Airport, now serves as a crucial link for both domestic and international travelers, reducing dependence on the heavily congested and often volatile Toussaint Louverture Airport. The improvements include an extended runway, enhanced passenger services, and the integration of border control operations, making it fully equipped to handle international flights.
According to Leslie Voltaire, head of Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council, the airport is not just an infrastructure upgrade—it’s a critical step toward fostering economic opportunities in the country’s southern region. The move is expected to drive investment, increase tourism potential, and provide a reliable transportation alternative amid ongoing security concerns in the capital.
The expansion comes at a time when gang-related violence has severely disrupted Haiti’s main transportation hubs, often leaving travelers stranded. By strengthening regional air connectivity, the government aims to mitigate travel disruptions and provide a more stable, long-term solution for international and domestic flights.
This new development reflects Haiti’s broader efforts to create a more resilient and accessible transportation network, opening up new avenues for trade and economic recovery.
