U.S. authorities released on Monday the message from a pilot addressed to passengers of a deportation flight, in which they are welcomed to “ICE Air.”
According to the audio published on the social media accounts of the Department of Homeland Security, they are urged to “come legally or not come at all”.
In a promotional tone, it concludes with: “An unforgettable journey to anywhere but here, only with ICE Air”.
The text even invites you to "book a one-way ticket home" through an official app.
“Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking… welcome aboard ICE Air; we hope you enjoy your flight home,” reads the message.
And it concludes: “The next time you come to the United States, do it legally or don't come at all. Thank you.”
Another post also states: “Are you here illegally? Book your one-way ticket home today with the CBP HOME app!”
The message, which does not specify whether it is a staged recording or a real one, combines aviation protocol with immigration discipline and the promotion of a “voluntary” return, setting a discouraging and exemplary tone towards passengers on deportation flights.
Trump's immigration policy
The White House and the DHS have framed a mass deportation operation with several fronts. They have intensified raids within the country, expanded 287(g) agreements for state and local police to act as immigration agents, and accelerated expulsions.
The government promotes a self-deportation line supported by official apps.
CBP Home (DHS/CBP) is aimed at individuals without status to register for voluntary departure, with a free ticket and a bonus of 1,000 dollars upon confirmation of departure.
The CBP Home application was launched in March 2025 as a replacement for CBP One. Among its main features is the ability to allow undocumented immigrants to notify their "intention to leave" and coordinate a voluntary return.
The government defended the measure as a way to provide migrants with a "dignified exit" and to reduce deportation costs, while human rights organizations warned that it is a mechanism that could leave those returning to contexts of poverty or persecution in greater vulnerability.
Frequently Asked Questions about ICE Deportation Flights and U.S. Immigration Policy.
What is ICE Air and what is its function?
ICE Air is a program of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) responsible for transporting undocumented immigrants to their home countries. This program has been controversially promoted, with messages encouraging migrants to leave the country voluntarily through flights organized by ICE.
What is the CBP Home app and how does it work?
The CBP Home application is a digital tool launched by the U.S. government to allow undocumented immigrants to notify their intention to voluntarily leave the country. Through this application, migrants can coordinate their return, receive a free ticket, and a bonus of $1,000 if they confirm their departure. It is part of the strategy to encourage self-deportation and avoid costly legal processes for the government.
What are the consequences for migrants who do not self-deport?
Migrants who do not self-deport face daily fines, arrest, and forced deportation, as well as a permanent ban on reentry to the United States. Fines can be retroactive and reach significant amounts, severely impacting the economic situation of migrants and their families.
What incentives does the U.S. government offer for self-deportation?
The U.S. government offers incentives such as a free flight to the country of origin and a $1,000 departure bonus for migrants who choose to self-deport using the CBP Home application. Furthermore, there is a promise of forgiveness for any fines accumulated for not having left the country previously.
How has the international community and human rights organizations responded to these measures?
Human rights organizations have strongly criticized these measures, arguing that they increase the vulnerability of migrants, who could face poverty or persecution upon returning to their home countries. These policies are seen as dehumanizing to migrants and using fear as a tool for control.
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