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DHS Doubles Deportation Jets, Critics Call for Cost-Effectiveness

4/18/2026

24 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Department of Homeland Security has doubled its deportation jet fleet to 10 aircraft, spending $304 million on five planes, including two Gulfstream G650ER jets.
DHS aims to streamline deportations and reduce reliance on chartered flights.
Critics, including former ICE officials and aviation experts, say more cost-effective options were available because Gulfstream G650ERs carry fewer than 20 passengers.

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Story summary

The Department of Homeland Security has doubled its deportation jet fleet to 10 aircraft, spending $304 million on five planes, including two Gulfstream G650ER jets.
DHS aims to streamline deportations and reduce reliance on chartered flights.
Critics, including former ICE officials and aviation experts, say more cost-effective options were available because Gulfstream G650ERs carry fewer than 20 passengers.