Protesters Boycott Avelo Airlines Over ICE Deportation Flights

Protesters gathered at Hollywood-Burbank Airport on Saturday to demonstrate against Avelo Airlines' decision to operate deportation flights for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The demonstrators positioned themselves at the airport entrance with signs encouraging passing drivers to honk in support of their cause. The protest represents growing tensions over immigration enforcement policies under the current administration.

Avelo Airlines has confirmed it will begin charter flights for deportation operations starting May 12, utilizing three Boeing 737 aircraft based at Mesa Gateway Airport in Arizona. In a statement addressing the controversy, Avelo CEO Andrew Levy acknowledged the sensitive nature of the decision but indicated the charter operations would provide financial stability for the company. The airline noted that the arrangement would help maintain employment for its more than 1,100 crew members while allowing for expansion of its scheduled passenger services.

Protesters expressed strong opposition to the airline's involvement in deportation operations. Susan Auerback, one of the demonstrators, stated they would not accept mass deportations and would intervene wherever possible to impede such operations. The protesters specifically targeted Avelo for what they characterized as prioritizing economic benefits over ethical considerations in supporting what they view as an unjust policy.

Notably, Avelo Airlines disclosed that it had previously operated similar charter flights during the Biden administration, suggesting continuity in these operations across different presidential administrations. This detail highlights the ongoing nature of deportation flights regardless of which party controls the White House. The controversy reflects broader national debates about immigration enforcement policies and the role of private companies in government operations.