NBC News provided an in-depth look at the journey of unauthorized immigrants being deported to Central America on a recent deportation flight. The process begins with an arrest, followed by transfer to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility. Expedited removal may apply to those who arrived within the last two years, while those who have been in the U.S. longer may face a lengthier deportation process. If a judge orders deportation, the individual receives a “final order of removal” and is flown from a staging location along the southwest border to their home country. ICE flights typically involve no carry-ons, restraints for some passengers, a large number of guards, and food provided during the flight. The Trump administration has also utilized military planes to deport immigrants. Diplomatic negotiations with receiving countries are necessary for every deportation flight, as the countries are not required to take back deported individuals. The process involves numerous logistical and financial considerations, including permits, fuel, employee wages, detention costs, and transportation expenses. Upon arrival in their home country, passengers are interviewed, receive medical evaluations, and are transported to their hometowns if needed.
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