The Department of Homeland Security has signed a nearly $140 million contract to acquire six Boeing 737 aircraft for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, marking a major expansion of the agency’s deportation capabilities following a significant funding boost approved by Congress.
- ICE has historically relied on chartered aircraft, but officials say the new fleet reflects broader plans tied to the $170 billion immigration enforcement funding authorized in this year’s GOP tax legislation.
- The administration has set a goal of 1 million removals by the end of President Trump’s first year; ICE officials report more than 579,000 removals to date.
- DHS spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin said owning planes would create savings and “more efficient flight patterns.”
- The contract was awarded to Daedalus Aviation, a company formed in 2024; its leaders are also linked to Salus Worldwide Solutions, which holds a separate DHS contract currently under legal challenge.
- Previous attempts to purchase aircraft — including a proposal involving Spirit Airlines planes without engines — fell through.
- Former ICE and DHS officials say operating a dedicated fleet may increase capacity but could be more expensive than traditional charter arrangements.
- Uncertainty remains about long-term use of the planes after the current administration, as ICE Air Operations has historically depended on flexible contracted flights.
- ICE has carried out 1,701 deportation flights to 77 countries since Jan. 20, according to Human Rights First’s ICE Flight Monitor.
Relevant Companies
- Boeing ($BA) — Manufacturer of the 737 aircraft being procured under the DHS contract.
Editor’s Note: This is a developing story. This article may be updated as more details become available.
