Key Highlights
- Around 20 airports in the U.S. are hosting similar protests on a busy travel day.
- Nashville protesters called for a boycott of Avelo Airlines, citing its contract with ICE.
- Avelo Airlines denies having any contract with the Department of Homeland Security or ICE.
- The company claims to fly charters for all branches of the government.
Protests Erupt at Major Airports Across U.S. Amidst Travel Surge
Nashville, Tennessee – On one of the busiest travel days of the year, a group of activists held a protest at Nashville International Airport (BNA), urging travelers to boycott Avelo Airlines due to its alleged contract with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Organizers Unite for National Day of Action
According to organizer Mike Lacy, around 20 airports across the United States are participating in a nationwide protest against Avelo Airlines. “There are over 20 cities in the U.S. participating in a national protest this weekend,” said Lacy from the Nashville Boycott Avelo Movement.
Activists Demand Action on Immigration Policies
The protesters, holding signs and chanting slogans, aimed to draw attention from both travelers and those picking up their loved ones. “We’re not asking you to give money. We’re asking you to not give money,” Lacy emphasized. The organizers claim that Avelo has a contract with ICE to help operate deportation flights.
Avelo Airlines Denies Contract Allegations
In response, Avelo Airlines released a statement denying any such contract. “Avelo does not have a contract with DHS/ICE and we have no idea how this false statement keeps getting publicized without any fact-checking,” said Courtney Goff, the company’s communications manager.
Goff added that Avelo operates charters for all branches of the government under multiple administrations. “We fly charters for all branches of the government as we have under multiple administrations, Biden and Trump. We do not have any contracts with DHS or ICE,” Goff said in a second statement.
Investigating Further: A Look at Immigration Policies
The allegations surrounding Avelo Airlines and its relationship with ICE are part of broader debates over the airline industry’s role in supporting government policies. As immigration issues continue to be contentious, such protests highlight the growing scrutiny placed on companies involved in sensitive operations.
“We recognize the right of individuals to peacefully assemble,” said Goff. “Avelo’s main priority continues to be maintaining the safety and timeliness of our operation that over 8.3 million customers across the country continue to enjoy.”
As the protests continue, both sides await further clarity from government officials on Avelo Airlines’ claims.
Note: All dates, names, quotes, and factual information in this article are exact as stated in the original news report. For more updates, contact Robb Coles at [email protected].
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