As **President Donald Trump** continues his **crackdown on immigration**, reports are emerging about the **staggering costs** of his administration’s **deportation flights**. Many are shocked to learn just how **expensive these flights are per person**, as Trump embarks on what he has called **“the largest deportation program in history.”**
Trump’s Immigration Crackdown and Deportation Program
Trump **returned to the White House 19 days ago** and has already enacted **numerous executive orders**, including policies aimed at **removing undocumented migrants**. Among his most controversial orders is the use of **military aircraft** to transport deportees back to their countries of origin.
During his campaign, **Trump vowed** to deport **“millions and millions”** of illegal immigrants, and since taking office, he has ordered **federal agencies** like the **FBI, DEA, ATF, US Marshals, and the Bureau of Prisons** to locate and remove undocumented individuals.
How Much Are Deportation Flights Costing?
Reports suggest that the **cost per deportee** is far higher than many anticipated:
- According to the **Mirror**, **military deportation flights** are costing **$4,675 per person**.
- By comparison, a **first-class ticket on a commercial airline** averages around **$853**, making deportation flights **significantly more expensive**.
- The **Economic Times** reports that:
- A **C-17 military flight** costs **$252,000 per trip**.
- A **C-130E flight** can cost up to **$852,000**.
- **Department of Homeland Security (DHS) flights** cost around **$8,577 per trip**.
Despite these **staggering expenses**, **Trump remains committed** to his deportation plan.
Trump Defends the Costs of Deportation Flights
Speaking at his **Doral golf club** to Republican lawmakers, Trump said:
“For the first time in history, we are locating and loading illegal aliens into military aircraft and flying them back to the places from which they came.”
He added:
“We’re respected again, after years of laughing at us like we’re stupid people.”
White House Justifies High Costs
Despite the **public concern over the costs**, **White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt** defended the **policy**, saying:
“President Trump is sending a strong and clear message to the entire world: If you illegally enter the United States of America, you will face severe consequences.”
What’s Next for Trump’s Immigration Policies?
Trump’s **strict immigration measures** continue to spark **debate** over **cost-effectiveness** and **policy priorities**. While **supporters** argue that these efforts **restore order and security**, **critics** question whether taxpayers should bear **such a hefty financial burden**.
As the **deportation program expands**, the **debate over its effectiveness and costs** will likely continue to **dominate national discussions**.
