The Trump administration is considering a significant shift in how international flights are processed at airports located in ‘sanctuary cities.’ Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has indicated that the government may halt customs and immigration processing for international arrivals in cities that do not comply with federal immigration enforcement. While no formal plans have been implemented yet, the administration is reportedly drafting strategies to address cities that the government views as impeding federal law.

Major stakeholders in the travel and aviation sectors are expressing grave concerns regarding the proposal. Trade groups representing major carriers, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, have warned that reducing Customs and Border Protection staffing at major hubs would cause massive operational disruptions. Beyond passenger travel, industry experts note that such a move would severely impact the flow of international cargo and the broader economy.

The timing of these discussions is particularly sensitive, as the United States is preparing to host millions of visitors for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Industry leaders, including representatives from major hotel chains like Hilton and Marriott, have emphasized that any disruption to immigration processing could cripple tourism in host cities. Major international hubs—including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco—are among the locations identified in previous federal reports as being at risk of such measures.

Analysts suggest the administration may be using the control of airport processing as leverage to influence local immigration policies. By targeting major air hubs in cities like Seattle, Philadelphia, and Boston, the federal government could exert significant pressure on local authorities. However, the U.S. Travel Association maintains that the consequences for communities dependent on international visitation would be catastrophic.