President Trump’s administration has been utilizing C-17 military planes for deportations since January, a move that signifies a harsh stance against migrants. A recent analysis conducted by The Wall Street Journal using aircraft and flight tracking data revealed that these military deportation flights are not only more expensive but also less efficient compared to ICE’s usual civilian deportation flights.
The WSJ’s investigation, led by Shelby Holliday, delves into the logistics of using C-17s for deportations and why this choice is costing taxpayers more money. The report highlights the stark differences between ICE Air, the agency responsible for coordinating civilian deportation flights, and the use of C-17 military planes.
The video investigation showcases a specific example of a deportation flight to India, where a C-17 was utilized for the operation, resulting in significantly higher costs. Furthermore, the report also examines the use of C-17s for flights to Guantanamo, shedding light on the inefficiencies and drawbacks of using military planes for deportations.
As a result of utilizing C-17s for deportations, ICE Air flights have seen a decline, suggesting that the use of military planes is not only more expensive but also impacting the overall efficiency of deportation operations.
The WSJ’s analysis raises important questions about the financial and operational implications of using military planes for deportations under the Trump administration. As the debate around immigration policies continues to evolve, the logistics of deportation flights have become a focal point of discussion, with taxpayers bearing the brunt of the cost.
Watch the video by The Wall Street Journal
Video “Military vs. Civilian Planes: The Logistics of Trump’s Deportation Flights | WSJ” was uploaded on 02/13/2025 to Youtube Channel The Wall Street Journal