Travel industry worries after Trump administration reiterates threat to sanctuary city airports

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin recently reiterated plans to withdraw U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers from airports in sanctuary cities, raising alarms in the travel industry. The move, discussed during a meeting with the U.S. Travel Association, could disrupt international flights and operational logistics for airlines, according to industry groups. The U.S. Travel Association condemned the proposal, stating it would have 'devastating consequences' for travel-dependent communities. Airlines for America warned that reduced CBP staffing would cause 'significant operational disruption' for carriers, travelers, and international cargo flow. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy also opposed the idea, calling it politically motivated and unsound. Sanctuary cities generally limit cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), though definitions vary. The Justice Department previously identified three dozen jurisdictions as sanctuary areas, but courts in 2017 blocked Trump’s attempt to cut federal funding to these cities. Mullin’s threat follows the administration’s broader stance against sanctuary policies, though internal support for the plan remains unclear. The proposal could target airports in cities with sanctuary policies, though no specific locations have been confirmed. Industry leaders argue the move would harm economic growth and tourism, while critics question its legality and practicality. Duffy suggested the idea lacked merit, warning that political restrictions on travel could backfire if future administrations adopt opposing policies.