Airlines for America and major carriers including Delta are opposing a Trump administration proposal to withdraw Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents from sanctuary city airports. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin confirmed the plan to remove federal staff from these locations.
The proposal targets major international hubs including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco. Withdrawing CBP agents could halt the processing of all international flights and cargo at these airports.
Airlines for America warns the move would have a devastating effect on the airline and tourism industries. Removing staff would cause severe operational disruptions and effectively cripple international travel to and from the nation's busiest hubs.
The U.S. Travel Association stated the plan would result in devastating consequences for local economies. These regions depend significantly on spending from international visitors.