Newark: A controversial proposal by the Trump administration to withdraw customs officers from international airports in sanctuary cities has triggered alarm across the aviation industry, posing a threat to international flights at major travel hubs just ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
According to Anadolu Agency, US Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin recently outlined this strategy as a means to pressure local governments that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
The proposal would not shut down airports entirely but would impact the processing of international passengers and cargo. This could force airlines to cancel or reroute hundreds of flights daily, disrupting cargo shipments and creating travel headaches for millions of passengers. The aviation industry has expressed concern over the potential economic and political consequences of using airport operations as leverage in an immigration dispute.
The Trump administration's proposal is part of a long-running dispute with sanctuary cities, which limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Supporters of sanctuary city policies argue they improve public safety, while critics claim they hinder immigration enforcement. Colleen Putzel-Kavanaugh, an associate policy analyst at the Migration Policy Institute, told Anadolu that the idea to pull federal customs officials from airports emerged after clashes outside an immigration detention facility in Newark, New Jersey. She emphasized it was another attempt to pressure local jurisdictions to comply with federal demands.
The proposal has faced criticism from both Democrats and Republicans. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy opposed the idea, stating that air travel should not be shut down over political disagreements. New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill warned that the proposal could cripple Newark Liberty International Airport, especially as the US hosts the FIFA World Cup.
The aviation and travel industries have vocally pushed back, warning of severe financial repercussions. A coalition of trade organizations, including the US Chamber of Commerce, urged the Department of Homeland Security to abandon the plan. Airlines for America, representing major US carriers, warned that reducing customs staffing would significantly disrupt passenger and cargo traffic. The US Travel Association estimated that suspending international operations at Newark could cost $8 billion annually and threaten nearly 50,000 jobs.
Aviation experts argue the proposal would be difficult to implement. The International Air Transport Association noted that redirecting traffic from Newark to nearby airports would be nearly impossible due to capacity restrictions. Douglas E. Lavin, IATA's vice president for North America, highlighted potential legal and diplomatic concerns, citing existing US Open Skies Agreements.
Policy experts anticipate legal challenges if the administration proceeds with the travel restrictions. While Mullin aims to pressure immigrant-friendly municipalities, analysts warn of significant political risks. Putzel-Kavanaugh suggested the policy could prove unpopular among the public due to its widespread repercussions and potential to alienate the business community.
The proposal remains in its early stages, facing significant opposition from the travel industry, business groups, and elected officials. CBP, the FAA, and the Department of Transportation have not responded to Anadolu's requests for comment.