DHS Begins Search for Operator to Run Deportation Flights

The Department of Homeland Security kicked off the search process this week for a contractor that could operate its deportation flights, according to a posting reviewed by NOTUS.

DHS employing an outside contractor to manage a government-owned airline would be a departure for the agency, which has traditionally conducted deportations through charter flights and military aircraft.

The notice is a precursor to DHS formally launching a bid for an operator. Interested parties have until July 22 to reply.

President Donald Trump’s administration earmarked $464.5 million for DHS earlier this year to purchase aircraft to bolster mass deportations as part of the president’s wider immigration crackdown.

The agency is seeking a contractor that could provide flight operations, maintenance and logistics support to the existing fleet, consisting of two small jets and seven planes capable of transporting large groups of passengers. The flights would be intended for removal operations, medical evacuations and movement of senior officials. The planes would travel to domestic and international locations, including “remote, primitive, or austere environments,” the posting said.

Contractors would be required to perform operations at all times of the day, 365 days a year, including short-notice missions, the notice says. The agency asked contractors to submit responses to questions about their company’s services, approach to staffing and operations, and experience managing personnel with high-level security clearances.

DHS did not immediately reply to a request for comment.