ALBANY, N.Y. – Senator Patricia Fahy (D–Albany) and Assemblymember Michaelle Solages (D–Elmont) released the following joint statement in response to news that Avelo Airlines is suspending its agreement with ICE and DHS to conduct deportation flights:

“After months of coordinated national pressure that included introducing our state legislation known as the SAFE AIR Act, Avelo Airlines has finally announced it will end its practice of deportations under a contract with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Our legislation and this decision send a clear message: New York must not be a place where private companies profit from the trauma, separation, and deportation of families, in many cases, depriving individuals of their Constitutional rights.

As sponsors of the SAFE AIR Act, we have been clear that New York State has both the authority and responsibility to ensure that New York’s aviation infrastructure is not used to carry out mass deportation practices that undermine due process and community trust. Today’s announcement reflects a growing understanding that these flights cause real harm to families and communities across the country, making us all less safe.

We remain committed to passing the SAFE AIR Act to ensure that New York State law clearly reflects these values moving forward. New York must continue to lead by standing up for immigrant communities, for due process, and for continuing the promise of the American Dream for millions here at home and across the globe.”

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