Avelo Airlines Ends Controversial Flights

Avelo Airlines has decided to stop its deportation flights for the Trump administration. This move comes after the company found the program too complicated and expensive. The airline will close its base in Mesa, Arizona, and leave the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) charter program. This decision follows months of protests and criticism. People in New Haven, Connecticut, started a boycott. Politicians and activists across the country also spoke out against Avelo's involvement in deportation flights. The flights began in Arizona last May and faced immediate backlash. Avelo's CEO, Andrew Levy, had previously defended the flights, saying they were necessary for the airline's operations. However, the recent decision shows a shift in priorities. Pastor Jack Perkins Davidson of Hamden's Spring Glen Church said, "Human suffering is not profitable. " He hopes other companies learn from Avelo's experience.Tabitha Sookdeo, executive director of Connecticut Students for a Dream, praised the decision. She said, "No airline should be in the business of transporting human beings in chains. " She believes this shows the power of community organizing. Avelo also announced plans to focus on its base at Tweed-New Haven Airport. The airline has been recapitalized and is in a strong financial position. It plans to streamline its network and modify its fleet. Avelo will continue to fly to 24 destinations from Tweed. The airline's decision to end deportation flights comes as Tweed New Haven Airport plans to expand. The airport aims to extend its runway and build a new terminal. Critics worry about increased flooding, air pollution, and noise. Despite these concerns, Avelo and Breeze are the only commercial carriers operating out of Tweed.