Avelo Airlines faces backlash over ICE deportation flights amid financial risks

The deal sparked controversy as commercial airlines rarely engage publicly in such operations. Justin Elicker, Mayor of New Haven, criticized the move: "Avelo Airlines’ decision to charter deportation flights from Mesa Gateway Airport in Arizona is deeply disappointing and disturbing. For a company that champions itself as ‘New Haven’s hometown airline,’ this business decision is antithetical to New Haven’s values."

Despite backlash, Avelo promotes the ICE contract as an opportunity for job security. The airline launched a recruitment drive for flight attendants with starting pay at $28 per hour plus per diem.

However, existing flight attendants have raised safety concerns about deportation flights where passengers are reportedly shackled. An ex-Avelo attendant described conditions as unsafe: "All 180 seats were filled on that flight, everyone shackled... if there had been some kind of emergency (...) I can guarantee people would've died."

Public opposition includes an online petition by the New Haven Immigrants Coalition urging a boycott against Avelo. In Salem, Oregon, where Avelo resumed services only recently, similar calls emerged despite limited commercial flights returning in 2023.

Financially, Avelo risks losing subsidies like fuel tax exemptions previously received from Connecticut. State Attorney General William Tong sought clarification from the airline under threat of withdrawing support.

Amidst these challenges and operational changes including canceling seven summer routes unrelated to ICE flights but affecting potential revenue streams—Avelo's strategy reflects a calculated gamble balancing ethical concerns with financial interests.