Trump administration floats cutting customs agents at sanctuary city airports, travel industry pushes back

The travel industry is sounding the alarm over a potential White House move to pull customs and immigration officers from airports in so-called sanctuary cities, warning the fallout would be severe for airlines, hotels, and the millions of visitors expected for next month’s FIFA World Cup.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin told Fox News on Tuesday that if local leaders refuse to help enforce federal immigration law, “we shouldn’t be processing international flights into their cities either.” He said the administration is “drawing up plans” but has not yet implemented any changes.

The timing has raised eyebrows. The World Cup kicks off in June, bringing travelers to host cities across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Industry groups argue that reducing Customs and Border Protection staffing at major airports would create chaos for passengers, airlines, and cargo operations.

Airlines for America, whose members include American, United, and Delta, said such a move would be “devastating,” causing major operational disruptions. The U.S. Travel Association, which represents Hilton, Marriott, and other chains, said Mullin confirmed in a meeting that the administration is considering withdrawing CBP officers. The group warned of “devastating consequences” for communities that rely on international visitors.

The Justice Department last year listed cities it says are impeding federal immigration policies, including New York, Newark, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, and Philadelphia—all major international gateways. Critics see the threat as leverage to pressure local governments into stricter enforcement against undocumented immigrants.