Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleRhian LubinTuesday 14 July 2026 07:34 BSTThe plans mark a departure from the use of military aircraft or charter flights to carry out deportations (Getty)The administration is seeking aviation companies to manage a dedicated fleet of aircraft for deportation flights and other operations.This initiative by the Department of Homeland Security aims to bolster deportation efforts, marking a departure from the use of military or charter flights.Contractors will be responsible for providing flight operations, maintenance, and logistics for a fleet including Gulfstream 650ERs and Boeing 737-700s, operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.The operations may involve remote or austere environments and support various missions, including voluntary repatriation, crisis response, and movement of officials.Companies have until July 22 to apply for these contracts, which follow the department's previous controversial aircraft purchases that drew lawmaker criticism.In fullTrump team is asking for companies to step up and handle deportation flightsMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in