Connecticut-based Avelo Airlines secures a long-term contract with ICE to conduct deportation flights from Arizona, sparking both business opportunities and ethical debates.
Key Takeaways
- Avelo Airlines has signed a contract with the Department of Homeland Security to operate ICE deportation flights out of Mesa Gateway Airport in Arizona starting May 12.
- The airline will dedicate three Boeing 737-800 aircraft to these operations, creating jobs with starting pay of $28/hour for flight attendants.
- The decision has faced criticism from local officials in New Haven, Connecticut, where Avelo is headquartered, including calls for boycotts.
- Avelo’s CEO Andrew Levy defended the decision as necessary for the airline’s financial stability and to maintain jobs for over 1,100 employees.
- The contract comes during increased deportation activities, with over 100,000 illegal migrants reportedly deported since President Trump returned to office.
New Partnership Established for Deportation Operations
Avelo Airlines has formalized a partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to conduct deportation flights from Arizona. The operation will be based at Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) and will include both domestic and international flights beginning May 12. The Connecticut-based airline plans to dedicate three Boeing 737-800 aircraft specifically for these Department of Homeland Security operations, establishing a new operational base that will require additional staffing and resources from the growing carrier.
Avelo Airlines is drawing criticism after reportedly signing a contract to operate federal deportation charter flights beginning in May 2025.
Avelo Airlines is partnering with Immigration Customs and Enforcement (ICE) to charter deportation flights out of an Arizona airport.… pic.twitter.com/BZjykJlIV1
— FL360aero (@fl360aero) April 8, 2025
The airline has begun recruiting for these positions, with flight attendant roles advertised at a starting pay of $28 per hour. Job listings seek “energetic, highly motivated” individuals for these specialized flights. Current Avelo employees will have the first option to transfer to the new Arizona base, which will require pilots, flight attendants, and aircraft technicians. This expansion represents a significant operational commitment from the relatively young airline.
Business Decision Amid Political Controversy
Avelo’s CEO Andrew Levy defended the partnership as a strategic business decision to ensure the airline’s continued growth and stability. “We realize this is a sensitive and complicated topic. After significant deliberations, we determined this charter flying will provide us with the stability to continue expanding our core scheduled passenger service and keep our more than 1,100 Crewmembers employed for years to come,” Levy said in response to mounting criticism.
The decision has faced significant opposition, particularly in New Haven, Connecticut, where Avelo is headquartered. Mayor Justin Elicker described the airline’s decision as “deeply disappointing and disturbing,” reflecting the divisive nature of immigration enforcement actions. The New Haven Immigrants Coalition has launched a boycott petition against the airline, highlighting the community tensions surrounding the airline’s new contract with federal immigration authorities.
Broader Context of Immigration Enforcement
This contract comes amid intensified immigration enforcement efforts under the current administration. According to reports, over 100,000 illegal migrants have been deported since President Trump returned to office as part of a broader strategy to reduce illegal border crossings. The administration has employed various legal mechanisms, including the Alien Enemies Act, which specifically targets the expulsion of individuals deemed dangerous, such as alleged gang members.
Recent deportation practices have faced legal challenges. A federal judge has questioned whether some deportation flights potentially violate standing court orders, adding another layer of complexity to immigration enforcement operations. These legal questions highlight the contentious nature of deportation activities and the scrutiny faced by both government agencies and their commercial partners in executing immigration policy.
Sources:
US airline partners with ICE in long-term deal to carry out deportation flights
