Trump’s military deportation flight costs approximately $4,675 per migrant, outpacing commercial fares by a substantial margin. The initiative, resulting in several flights to Guatemala under a national emergency decree, faces high operational costs significantly more than those of ICE’s charter flights, indicating an aggressive enforcement strategy on immigration policies.
President Trump’s recent military deportation flight to Guatemala reportedly cost at least $4,675 per migrant, significantly higher than the $853 price for a one-way first-class ticket on American Airlines. This reflects a cost over five times greater than commercial options and surpasses the expenses associated with ICE-chartered flights.
The military deportation initiative has seen six flights thus far, all directed to Latin America. Four flights landed in Guatemala, with two more flights to Colombia being redirected amidst a diplomatic dispute. An anonymous US official has indicated that operating a C-17 military transport plane costs roughly $28,500 per hour.
The high costs associated with military deportation flights emerge during Trump’s national emergency declaration on immigration. This initiative marks a significant shift, where the deportation process is conducted using military aircraft instead of commercial services. ICE has previously utilized charter flights for deportations, highlighting the financial differences between these options.
The military aircraft option represents a much higher financial commitment compared to commercial flights. As the program continues, further financial implications are likely if these deportation methods expand. Trump’s stark approach towards deportees is coupled with a pointed message to nations resisting cooperation on immigration issues.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
