DHS Weighs Own Fleet for Deportation Flights
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is reportedly considering the purchase and operation of its own fleet of aircraft dedicated to deportation flights, according to NBC News. The move, still under discussion, would mark a significant shift from the department’s current reliance on chartered aircraft.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is said to be advocating for the plan, citing the department’s expanded budget and the government’s goal of deporting 30,000 to 35,000 immigrants each month. By owning its own aircraft, DHS would have greater control over scheduling and costs associated with removals.
At present, DHS contracts with commercial operators to carry out deportation flights. The average cost for a daily charter is about $8,577 per flight hour, while high-risk missions range from $6,929 to $26,795 depending on the aircraft type. The department typically charters eight to 14 planes at a time, with 12 aircraft currently positioned at bases in Arizona, Texas, Louisiana, and Florida.
For standard deportation missions, DHS uses Boeing 737 or MD-80 series aircraft. Larger high-risk operations require widebodies such as Boeing 777s, while smaller high-security missions often use private jets like Gulfstream GIVs.
Chartering flights has proven politically contentious, with operators facing criticism and boycotts. Avelo Airlines, for example, lost contracts in Democratic-run cities after its role in deportation operations was publicized.
DHS has not confirmed the NBC News report but acknowledged discussions about future options for its deportation operations as demand continues to rise.
Related News: https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/airline-finance/
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, NBCNews.com