Avelo Airlines has struck a deal with the Trump administration to help with deportation flights, starting in May. The budget airline will set up a new base in Arizona to assist Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) by operating three planes, aimed at reducing the cost of Trump’s deportation plans. This deal comes as part of Avelo’s long-term plan to expand, with CEO Andrew Levy saying the move will protect jobs and ensure stability for the airline.
Though charter flights like this are rare, it’s not the first time airlines have been involved in deportations. During Trump’s first term, major airlines like United, American, and Delta facilitated many deportation flights to Central America. Recently, another charter company, GlobalX, faced backlash after flight attendants raised concerns about unsafe conditions on deportation flights, including malfunctioning equipment and issues with detainees being shackled during the flights.
As Avelo prepares to fly deportation flights, local advocacy groups and New Haven officials are protesting the airline’s involvement. New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker has expressed disappointment, calling it a contradiction to the city’s values, and has even reached out to Avelo’s CEO to reconsider the decision. Meanwhile, an online petition is urging a boycott of the airline.
Avelo Airlines Signs Deal to Fly Deportation Flights for Trump Administration from Arizona”
