Avelo Airlines strikes a major deal with the Department of Homeland Security to operate deportation flights from Arizona, creating jobs while facing criticism from immigration advocates.
Key Takeaways
- Avelo Airlines has secured a contract with DHS to operate deportation flights starting May 12 from Mesa Gateway Airport in Arizona.
- The airline will dedicate three Boeing 737-800 aircraft to this operation, creating numerous jobs with flight attendant positions starting at $28 per hour.
- The deal has sparked controversy, with New Haven officials expressing disappointment and local immigrant coalitions organizing boycotts.
- Over 100,000 illegal migrants have been deported since President Trump returned to office as part of broader border security efforts.
- Avelo CEO Andrew Levy defended the decision as providing financial stability to maintain the airline’s core passenger services and protect 1,100 existing jobs.
New Partnership for Border Enforcement
Avelo Airlines has entered into a significant agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to conduct deportation flights. The operation will be based at Mesa Gateway Airport in Arizona and is scheduled to begin on May 12. This partnership represents a substantial expansion for the relatively small airline, which will allocate three Boeing 737-800 aircraft specifically for these Department of Homeland Security operations. The program will involve both domestic and international flights, allowing ICE to expedite the removal process for individuals who have entered the country illegally or have violated the terms of their visa status.
The deal comes at a time when border enforcement has been intensified under the Trump administration. According to reports, over 100,000 illegal migrants have been deported since President Trump returned to office, part of broader efforts to reduce unauthorized border crossings. The Alien Enemies Act, which has been utilized by the administration, specifically targets the removal of individuals deemed dangerous, including alleged gang members and those with criminal backgrounds.
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
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The partnership is creating substantial employment opportunities in the Arizona area. Avelo is actively recruiting for multiple positions to support the new operation, including pilots, flight attendants, and aircraft technicians. Flight attendant positions advertised for these special operations come with competitive compensation, starting at $28 per hour, with the company seeking “energetic, highly motivated” individuals. This development represents a significant economic boost for the Mesa area, creating an entirely new operational base for the airline.
Current Avelo employees will be given priority consideration for transfers to the new base, providing internal advancement opportunities. The airline’s leadership has emphasized that this contract provides financial stability that allows them to continue expanding their regular passenger services while maintaining employment for their existing workforce of over 1,100 crew members. This dual benefit of new job creation and preservation of existing positions has been central to the company’s justification for entering the controversial agreement.
Controversy and Opposition
Despite the economic benefits, the decision has generated significant controversy. In New Haven, Connecticut, where Avelo operates a hub, local officials have expressed strong opposition. Mayor Justin Elicker described the airline’s decision as “deeply disappointing and disturbing.” The New Haven Immigrants Coalition has gone further by organizing a boycott petition against the airline, reflecting the divisive nature of immigration enforcement activities. These reactions highlight the complex intersection of business operations and immigration policy in today’s politically charged environment.
The deportation flights themselves have become a subject of legal scrutiny. President Trump has faced questions from a federal judge regarding potential violations of a court order related to these operations. The administration’s aggressive approach to immigration enforcement continues to generate legal challenges and public debate. For Avelo, the contract represents a significant business opportunity, but one that comes with potential reputational risks as they navigate the controversial terrain of immigration enforcement operations.
Strategic Business Decision
For Avelo Airlines, a relatively new player in the commercial aviation market, this partnership represents a strategic diversification of their business model. By securing a long-term government contract, the company gains predictable revenue streams that can help cushion against the notoriously volatile commercial passenger market. This stability is particularly valuable for smaller airlines that lack the financial reserves of major carriers, especially following the industry disruptions caused by the pandemic in recent years.
The airline industry has long had various relationships with government agencies, including deportation operations, though these arrangements typically remain outside the public spotlight. Avelo’s transparent approach to announcing the partnership highlights the changing dynamics of corporate engagement with immigration enforcement. As border security remains a high-priority issue for the current administration, these types of public-private partnerships may become increasingly common, though they will likely continue to generate significant debate about the proper role of private companies in immigration enforcement activities.
Sources:
US airline partners with ICE in long-term deal to carry out deportation flights
