Avelo Airlines Stops ICE Deportation Flights

Avelo Airlines has announced the termination of its contract with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct migrant deportation flights. This decision marks a significant shift for the Houston-based airline, which was founded in 2021.

Avelo Airlines Ends Deportation Flights

The airline stated that the contract did not provide the financial benefits they had anticipated, leading to a reevaluation of their operations. Consequently, Avelo will close its hub at Mesa Gateway Airport in Phoenix, effective January 27. This location served as the base for its migrant flight operations.

Financial Implications and Operational Challenges

Avelo Airlines noted that while the DHS charter program initially offered short-term gains, it failed to deliver consistent revenue to justify its complexity and costs. A spokesperson for Avelo remarked on the operational challenges posed by these flights.

Future Plans and Operations

• Avelo Airlines operates numerous low-cost flights to various destinations, including the Caribbean.
• The airline is set to establish a fifth hub in Dallas by late 2026.

Historically, DHS has collaborated with CSI Aviation, which sub-contracted Avelo for air charter services. ICE is known to work with multiple charter companies, including GlobalX, which managed over half of DHS’ charter flights in 2025.

Community Reactions and Protests

The company’s involvement in deportation flights has stirred public backlash and protests. Advocacy groups, such as the Indivisible Project, have been vocal in their opposition to Avelo Airlines’ participation in these operations. Following the announcement, Ezra Levin, co-executive director of Indivisible, commended Avelo for ending the contract with DHS.

Levin emphasized the collective efforts of communities nationwide, who organized and protested against the airline’s actions that negatively impacted immigrant families and workers.

Conclusion

As Avelo Airlines shifts its focus away from deportation flights, it remains to be seen how this will affect its overall business strategy and community relations moving forward.