Struggling commercial airline Avelo has turned to deportation flights. Even though the CEO admitted it’s a controversial choice, it’s 'too valuable not to pursue'

(Credit: Getty Images—VERONICA G. CARDENAS/AFP)

• Budget airline Avelo will start deportation flights through an ICE contract starting in May as a last-ditch effort to increase revenue. This is “unusual,” experts say, considering it’s typically smaller charter companies that offer such flights. The company has already gotten backlash for its decision to move into deportation flights.

Smaller budget airlines are struggling to keep up with companies like Delta and United and have turned to targeting premium customers by offering more legroom, priority boarding, and checked bags. But one beleaguered airline has taken a different approach to boost its business.