US expands deportation flights with new Boeing 737 fleet

DHS buys six Boeing 737s to ramp up deportation flights under Trump’s policies

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is acquiring six Boeing 737s to expand its deportation flight operations. The move comes as the agency transitions from using charter operators to owning its own aircraft. Officials state the new planes, likely 737-700 or 737-800 models, will help meet increasing demand for removals under the Trump administration's immigration policies.

The aircraft, purchased from Allegiant Air, will be refurbished by Daedalus. Modifications will include partitioned seating, surveillance systems, and specialized restraints for secure transport. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stated the planes would boost operational efficiency and reduce delays in deportation procedures.

The new fleet is expected to save around $279 million by improving flight scheduling and matching capacity with demand. ICE Air currently operates from hubs in Arizona, Texas, and Louisiana, where the new planes may also be stationed. However, it remains unclear whether DHS will use its own flight crews or continue relying on contract pilots.

Scrutiny has arisen over Daedalus, the company handling the refurbishments. Its CEO and CFO also lead Salus Worldwide Solutions, a firm with a separate DHS contract worth nearly $1 billion. Lawmakers have questioned potential conflicts of interest in the arrangement.

The purchase aligns with the Trump administration's goal of deporting one million immigrants by 2025. The new aircraft will increase DHS's ability to conduct removals while cutting costs. Officials have not yet confirmed how the planes will be crewed or when they will enter service.