Haiti – Air Transport: IBC Airways Plane Skids Off Runway in Les Cayes, No Injuries Reported

LES CAYES, Haiti.— An IBC Airways plane was involved in an incident this Friday during its landing at Antoine Simon International Airport, in southern Haiti.

According to initial information available, the aircraft, registered NB27 IBC, was carrying about ten passengers. Upon landing, the plane reportedly encountered braking difficulties on a runway made particularly slippery by the afternoon rains falling on the city of Les Cayes.

Unable to stop in time, the aircraft overran the runway before coming to rest in the airport's safety barrier. Its front section ended up near the road bordering the airport facilities, causing considerable concern on site.

Despite the scare, no deaths or injuries were reported. All passengers were safely evacuated, although several of them were in a state of shock. They were quickly attended to by the emergency response teams present at the scene.

This incident highlights the challenges associated with operating conditions at some of the country's airports, particularly during periods of severe weather. The issue of runway safety, maintenance, and braking systems in wet conditions is acutely raised.