Avelo Airlines Launches Deportation Charter Flights
Avelo Airlines, based in Burbank, has entered into a significant agreement with the United States Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration Control and Enforcement agency to operate deportation flights from Mesa Gateway Airport starting May 12, 2025. Under this new arrangement, the carrier will deploy three Boeing 737-800 aircraft that will be strategically based in Mesa to serve the charter program. In parallel, Avelo Airlines is establishing a dedicated crew base and actively recruiting additional flight attendants to support these specialized operations. The planned flights, which will serve both domestic and international routes, are designed to assist the Department of Homeland Security in efficiently managing deportation efforts while ensuring timely transportation of individuals facing removal from the country.
Andrew Levy, founder and chief executive of Avelo Airlines, acknowledged that deportation operations are inherently sensitive and complex. In a recent statement, Levy explained that after extensive deliberations, the airline determined that participating in this charter service would provide the necessary stability to continue expanding its core scheduled passenger services, while also safeguarding employment for its more than 1,100 crewmembers over the coming years. He noted that the decision was made with careful consideration of both operational benefits and potential public scrutiny, reflecting the airline’s commitment to balancing commercial growth with critical government support initiatives.
This new venture represents a significant diversification of Avelo Airlines’ business model, which has traditionally focused on scheduled passenger services. The airline currently operates a fleet that includes eight Boeing 737-700s and twelve Boeing 737-800s, and it maintains nine operational bases across the United States. These bases, located in cities such as Burbank, Concord, Hartford Bradley, Lakeland, New Haven, Orlando International, Raleigh/Durham, Santa Rosa, and Wilmington New Castle, have enabled Avelo Airlines to build a robust domestic network. The integration of deportation charter flights is expected to enhance the airline’s operational flexibility and generate additional revenue streams, thereby reinforcing its financial stability in a competitive market.
The agreement with the Department of Homeland Security is anticipated to yield broader economic benefits, as it supports government efforts in immigration control and enforcement while providing Avelo Airlines with a new source of operational consistency. By integrating this specialized charter service into its regular operations, the carrier aims to achieve balanced growth that meets diverse customer needs and aligns with national priorities. As the program commences on May 12, 2025, Avelo Airlines is set to embark on a new phase of its corporate journey, demonstrating its adaptability and long-term commitment to maintaining a dynamic presence in the aviation industry.
Industry analysts view this development as a strategic move that not only strengthens Avelo Airlines’ market position but also underscores the airline’s willingness to innovate and diversify its service offerings. With the successful launch of the deportation charter flights, the carrier is poised to continue its expansion while supporting critical governmental operations and ensuring continued employment for its dedicated workforce. These new operations are expected to further solidify Avelo Airlines’ strong reputation as an agile and forward-thinking carrier in a challenging industry.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com