First self-deportation flight carries migrants back home

In Honduras, on May 19, 2025, a new initiative by the United States aimed at facilitating the voluntary return of undocumented migrants was put into action. This event marked the arrival of the first flight under this program, which has been termed 'Project Homecoming.' A total of 64 individuals, including 38 Hondurans and 26 Colombians, took part in this flight, receiving financial assistance to help with their return, including $1,000 debit cards from the U.S. government. The flight landed at Ramón Villeda Morales International Airport, with reports indicating that among the migrants were individuals previously living in the U.S. who chose this option to avoid potential deportation and family separation. 19 of the returning migrants were children, with some having been born in the United States. The self-deportation initiative is part of a broader policy change introduced by the Trump administration, which aims to offer undocumented immigrants a dignified way to leave the country voluntarily. This program is significant since it represents a departure from conventional deportation measures that often involve more hostility and enforcement. Participants like Wilson Sáenz and Kevin Antonio Posadas shared their experiences, detailing the application process via the CBP Home app and the assistance they received during their flight home. Many migrants reported difficulty in living in the U.S. without proper documentation, leading them to view this opportunity favorably. Honduran officials welcomed the migrants and offered additional support to aid their reintegration, including cash incentives and credits in local stores. The expectation from U.S. officials is that this initiative could help reduce the costs associated with deportation, while also addressing the unyielding number of undocumented individuals seeking a way out. Despite the generous assistance offered, experts suggest that the appeal of the self-deportation program may be limited, and the number of early participants is still relatively low. The administration's move to support voluntary returns may be seen as a double-edged sword, attempting to manage the flow of migration while also facing criticism for its management of undocumented immigrants. Honduran immigration authorities expect that while the number of deportations from the U.S. may remain low compared to previous years, programs like Project Homecoming could lead some individuals to choose this path willingly. Several participants expressed hope that they would one day be able to reapply for legal entry into the U.S. after returning home. The success of these initiatives will likely depend on how effectively repatriated migrants can be reintegrated and what kind of ongoing support systems are available to assist them after returning home.