DHS Considers Reducing Customs Staff at Airports in Sanctuary Cities

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said he is considering cuts to customs agents at international airports in U.S. cities that do not cooperate with federal deportation efforts. Mullin first raised the idea in April and repeated it this week during television interviews.

He stated that sanctuary cities receiving international flights should partner with federal authorities on immigration enforcement at airports.

Airlines for America, which represents American Airlines, United, and Delta, said reducing Customs and Border Protection staffing at major airports would have a devastating effect on the airline and tourism industries. The group warned of major disruptions to airlines, travelers, and international cargo.

It noted that carriers would need to reroute flights, adjust staffing, and manage passenger connections if customs processing moved to other airports.

Industry Reactions The U.S.

Travel Association said the proposal would affect American citizens returning from abroad more than international visitors. Travel analyst Henry Harteveldt called the suggestion impractical. Richard Aboulafia of AeroDynamic Advisory said clearing passengers at their point of entry means changes at one airport would affect businesses nationwide.

DHS has not identified which airports would lose agents if the plan moves forward.