Homeland Security's $460 Million Deportation Fleet Grounded Due to Maintenance Issues

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has spent over $460 million to acquire a fleet of 10 aircraft for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deportation flights, an operation dubbed 'ICE Air'. The agency aims to double its deportation numbers under the Trump Administration's increased deportations.

However, since delivery in 2026, the planes have barely flown due to maintenance issues and a lack of pilots, flight attendants, and security personnel. Initially, it was believed that DHS would operate the flights itself, but it is now looking for private contractors to do so.

The fleet includes seven Boeing 737-700s, one Boeing 737 MAX 8 BBJ, and two Gulfstream business jets. The 737s have spent most of their time parked at the DHS, while the Gulfstreams have not been utilized due to leasing issues with other government agencies.

The ICE Air fleet is expected to be fully operational by July 2027, but this may be delayed due to staffing issues and the contract for private contractors. The high cost of maintenance and capital costs has become a significant financial burden for DHS.