The Trump administration has paused military deportation flights due to high costs. The last of these flights occurred on March 1, with reports suggesting this suspension might become permanent. Military flights proved inefficient and expensive, sparking discussions about re-evaluating deportation methods.

The Trump administration has temporarily suspended the use of military aircraft for deporting migrants, citing high operational costs. The last military flight for deportation occurred on March 1. The Wall Street Journal reports that this suspension may become permanent as the costs of military flights prove unsustainable compared to commercial options.

Military aircraft were utilized for deportations to convey a strict stance on illegal immigration, engaging various aircraft models for around 30 deportation flights to multiple countries including India, Peru, and more. Reports also indicated that deported Indian migrants experienced shackling during their flights, arriving in India in a restrained condition.

Using military flights for deportation, the Trump administration aimed to signal its strict immigration policies, although these operations have been found inefficient due to extended routes and higher taxpayer costs. For instance, three recent flights to India incurred costs of $3 million each, while international flights cost approximately $17,000 per flight hour, nearly double that of standard deportation flights.

Furthermore, C-17 aircraft, typically used for heavy cargo and troop transport, cost $28,500 per hour to operate. These flights faced additional constraints as several countries, including Mexico and Venezuela, denied the entry of US military aircraft, resulting in longer and more costly routes for deportation. Some countries managed their own deportation processes effectively by providing commercial flights for their citizens.

In summary, the suspension of military flights for deportation by the Trump administration highlights the financial concerns associated with this method. With significant costs and logistical challenges, the reliance on military aircraft has proven to be an impractical strategy for enforcing stringent immigration policies. As the administration evaluates its options, it appears more sustainable practices may need to be prioritized moving forward.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com

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