Avelo Airlines partners with ICE for deportation flights amid public backlash
- Avelo Airlines signed a long-term agreement with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to operate deportation flights starting in May.
- The airline has faced significant criticism and backlash from community members due to its involvement in ICE's deportation efforts.
- Avelo's decision is seen as an unusual move for a commercial airline, raising concerns about its implications for immigrant communities.
In the United States, Avelo Airlines is set to begin operating deportation flights as part of a long-term charter agreement with the Department of Homeland Security's Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency. This agreement, which commences in May, will utilize three Boeing 737-800 aircraft based at Mesa Gateway Airport in Arizona. The airline's CEO, Andrew Levy, stated the decision was made to provide financial stability to the company and support the job security of its employees. Given the sensitive nature of the topic, Levy acknowledged the potential backlash and controversy surrounding the charter program. Criticism has already emerged against Avelo Airlines since it was revealed that they would be assisting federal deportation efforts. Many community members, including the mayor of New Haven, Connecticut, expressed disappointment over the airline's decision, stating it contradicts the values of inclusivity and community that they believe the airline represents. The New Haven Immigrants Coalition has initiated a petition against the airline, garnering thousands of signatures in a short period, reflecting widespread disapproval among local residents. Furthermore, days after announcing the charter agreement, Avelo confirmed it would close its base at Sonoma County Airport due to disappointing financial results, further signalling operational changes as they pivot towards the deportation flight arrangement. Although the airline insisted that the move was based on financial considerations rather than political motivations, many former employees and local advocates feel threatened by the potential implications of their business decision on immigrant communities. There is also a unique aspect to this arrangement, as commercial airlines do not often engage in deportation flights, usually left to lesser-known charter companies. Avelo's significant visibility as a retail airline and its recent entry into the charter service presents stakeholders with a rare situation that may set a precedent for future contracts between airlines and governmental immigration authorities. As the May launch date approaches, Avelo Airlines stands at the crossroads of financial necessity and public opinion, navigating a highly charged political landscape surrounding immigration policy.