DHS's Deportation Fleet Nears Flight, But Skepticism Remains on Cost and Feasibility

DHS has revived a long-shot plan to operate its own deportation fleet, buying eight Boeing 737s and two Gulfstream jets under Kristi Noem and, after a leadership change, having Secretary Markwayne Mullin reevaluate the program. Officials say the planes could be used for deportations with contracted operators in the coming weeks, aiming to cut costs tied to charter flights, but critics warn the venture may be financially and logistically fragile, noting questions about pilots, maintenance, and whether the aircraft were overvalued. The fleet has largely sat idle while funding for removal efforts has grown, and deportation flights have surged, with a monthly record of 245 removal flights reported previously. There is also scrutiny over a luxury jet purchase and the overall cost-structure of staffing and operating a private deportation fleet.