Key airline used by Trump for deportations cuts ties with ICE

Avelo Airlines is ending its contract with ICE, ceasing deportation flights less than a year after starting the program. This decision follows a highly publicized criticism from immigrant advocacy groups and protests at Avelo's base locations. The airline stated that the program didn't generate enough consistent revenue to justify its operational complexities and political controversy. The company's CEO acknowledged the program placed them in the midst of a political firestorm. Avelo's base at Mesa Gateway Airport, where these flights operated, will be closed on January 27. Advocacy groups and activists launched various campaigns against Avelo's involvement in deportation flights. One group created a tool to overwhelm Avelo with fake applications, while others launched billboard campaigns. While the exact number of deportations performed by Avelo is unclear, Avelo was reported to operate the majority of full-aircraft deportation flights. The end of Avelo's contract is viewed positively by some, including a union representing flight attendants. Some ICE deportations still occur on commercial flights, but Avelo's participation is coming to a halt.