Protesters Demand Avelo Airlines End ICE Contract at Albany Airport

ALBANY, N.Y. (WRGB) — More than 100 protesters gathered under rainy skies near Albany International Airport on Saturday, May 31, to call for Avelo Airlines to sever its contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This protest was part of a nationwide movement happening in nearly 30 cities against the airline’s role in deportation flights.

Brian Paz Hernandez, chair of Troy Indivisible, criticized Avelo’s financial relationship with ICE, stating, ‘Avelo has a contract now with ICE and the millions of dollars to deport immigrants without due process.’

The protesters stressed the importance of protecting due process for all, regardless of immigration status. Luanne Pink, another participant, shared her views: ‘If you have justification to take the criminals, they do need due process because we are United States citizens, and anyone on this ground deserves the right to that.’

Earlier that week, Senator Pat Fahy introduced the Safe Air Act, which would prohibit deportation flights on commercial airlines contracted by ICE, absent a judicial warrant, legal counsel, and an immigration hearing. The bill also proposes removing a sales tax exemption on jet fuel for airlines involved in such operations.

Hernandez added, ‘The Safe Air Act would remove financial incentives to any airline that participates in the deportation of immigrants without due process.’

Senator Fahy noted that Avelo operates at four New York airports and mentioned that deportation flights are currently departing from Texas and Arizona.

Avelo Airlines responded by emphasizing their commitment to operational safety and timelines while recognizing the right of individuals to peacefully assemble. ‘Avelo’s main priority will continue to be maintaining the safety and timeliness of our operation,’ the airline stated.

Andras Kriefall, co-chair of Indivisible Albany, called for a boycott against Avelo until they terminate their contract with ICE. He indicated that more protests are expected in the upcoming weeks from Indivisible groups in the Capital Region.

As of now, CBS6 has contacted Albany International Airport for comments on the initiation of deportation flights but has not yet received a response. Meanwhile, some Republican lawmakers have denounced the proposed legislation, labeling it a political attack on the Trump administration.