American airline “Avelo Airlines” announced that it will suspend, starting January 27, its flights dedicated to deporting immigrants from the United States.
The Houston-based company had signed an agreement with the Department of Homeland Security last April to operate flights dedicated to deporting immigrants, but since then it has faced a campaign of protests and calls for a boycott.
The company acknowledges generating additional revenue from deportations
The company clarified in a statement on Friday that this decision reflects a strategic shift aimed at focusing exclusively on commercial passenger transport, which is the core activity of “Avelo,” and on the long-term growth of its network.
It noted that the deportation flights generated additional revenue, but they caused operational complexities that no longer align with the company’s priorities.
“Avelo Airlines” was contracted by “CSI Aviation,” which in turn is contracted by the government to manage immigrant deportation flights.
Deportation flights bring in $560 million for the company
According to official federal spending data, “CSI” has received more than $560 million to date for deportation flights.
More than 11,000 deportation flights were recorded between January and November 2025. In November alone, 1,454 deportation flights were recorded, 17% of which were operated by “Avelo Airlines.”
Avelo Airlines
Avelo Airlines is a low-cost American airline founded in 2021, focusing on connecting smaller, underserved airports with affordable flights. It was established by industry veteran Andrew Levy and began operations from its first base at Hollywood Burbank Airport in California.
United States
The United States is a federal republic founded in 1776 following the American Revolution, which established its independence from Great Britain. Its history includes westward expansion, a civil war over slavery, and its emergence as a global superpower in the 20th century. The nation is defined by its diverse population, democratic institutions, and significant cultural influence worldwide.
Houston
Houston is a major city in Texas, founded in 1836 and named after General Sam Houston, who won Texas’s independence from Mexico. It grew rapidly due to the oil industry and is now known globally as the home of NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
Department of Homeland Security
The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is a federal cabinet department established in November 2002 in response to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Its primary mission is to protect the United States from various threats, including terrorism, cybersecurity risks, and natural disasters, by coordinating efforts across 22 different federal agencies.
CSI Aviation
CSI Aviation is a company specializing in aviation services, including charter flights and aviation logistics, rather than a historical or cultural site. It was founded in 1979 and has grown to provide services for government, commercial, and humanitarian operations globally.
