DHS Seeks to Repurpose Idle Mass Deportation Jets
The Department of Homeland Security is repurposing Boeing 737 jets bought for mass deportations after the fleet remained mostly idle in Louisiana.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is seeking to repurpose four Boeing 737-700 jets originally acquired for mass deportation operations. The aircraft have remained mostly idle at Lake Charles Regional Airport in Louisiana since April 2026, with data showing each plane has conducted fewer than five flights.
Former Secretary Kristi Noem purchased the fleet to support the deportation campaign of President Donald Trump. The acquisition was part of a series of high-cost projects initiated by Noem and advisor Corey Lewandowski that have drawn bipartisan criticism for wasteful spending. While the agency previously claimed a government-owned fleet would increase efficiency, it has continued to rely on commercial, military, and chartered flights, completing over 2,400 deportation flights to 82 countries through September 2026.
Current Secretary Markwayne Mullin is now overseeing efforts to transition the aircraft for use by Congressional delegations and VIP transport.
