Activists celebrate Avelo Airlines’ departure from Bradley Airport

Activists Celebrate Avelo Airlines’ Departure from Bradley Airport

A coalition of groups from Massachusetts and Connecticut marked the upcoming departure of Avelo Airlines from Bradley International Airport on Saturday. The activists oppose the airline's contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to operate deportation flights.

Opposition to Avelo Airlines’ Deportation Flights

John Majercak, from Indivisible Northampton Swing Left Western Massachusetts, expressed strong criticism of ICE’s actions:

“These are people who are shackled, many of them have not gone before a judge, their families don’t know where they are. They’ve essentially been kidnapped and relocated in a very illegal way.”

Majercak emphasized the importance of boycotting companies that collaborate with ICE:

“We think that any company that’s helping (ICE) shouldn’t get anyone’s business. So we’re spreading the word, letting people know not to fly them.”

Activist Actions and Community Response

Activists from local chapters of Indivisible and the Democratic Socialists of America CT Chapter displayed large banners over the Route 75 overpass near the airport. They celebrated the move as a victory after sustained pressure on the airline.

Majercak also highlighted public dismay regarding ICE’s treatment of immigrants:

“People are just horrified at what they’ve been seeing.”

The activists divided into two groups on Saturday, with one protesting at Bradley Airport directly.

Summary

Grassroots groups celebrated Avelo Airlines’ exit from Bradley Airport due to its role in deportation flights, viewing it as a win for immigrant rights and community advocacy.

Would you like the summary to be more neutral or clearly activist-leaning?

MassLive — 2025-11-04