A big change that could lead to flight cancellations or reroutes at O’Hare Airport and other major U.S. airports could be in store if the Department of Homeland Security makes good on a recent threat against sanctuary cities, according to a new report.
DHS renewed its threat to cut staffing for customs processing at airports in sanctuary cities, Crain’s Chicago Business reported, citing a recent meeting.
The threat aims to add further pressure on local leaders to bring them in line with President Donald Trump’s immigration policies.
Illinois and Chicago both have sanctuary policies that limit local law enforcement’s ability to cooperate with federal immigration operations.
Removing Customs and Border Patrol staff could force airlines to cancel or reroute some flights if it happens, potentially impacting airports beyond just the targeted cities.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy reportedly said during a congressional hearing Thursday that he had not yet heard the comments, but noted “we shouldn’t shut down air travel in a state that doesn’t agree with our politics.”
No timing has been given for such a move and no decision has been made so far.
