Homan Confirms ICE Deployment to U.S. Airports as Administration Moves to Address Security Strain

Federal officials say immigration agents will assist airport operations beginning Monday as part of a broader plan coordinated with TSA leadership.

By yourNEWS Media Newsroom

Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents are expected to begin deploying to U.S. airports, according to comments made Sunday by border czar Tom Homan, as the Trump administration moves to address ongoing operational challenges at airport security checkpoints.

During an appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Homan confirmed that ICE personnel would be positioned at airports as early as Monday and said planning was underway in coordination with federal agencies.

“Yes. And, I’m currently working on the plan now, execution. I’m working with the director of ICE and the administrator of TSA, the acting administrator. So we’ll put together a plan today and will execute tomorrow,” Homan said.

The announcement follows statements by President Donald Trump indicating that ICE agents would be deployed to assist airport security operations. The move comes amid disruptions linked to staffing shortages and long wait times at major airports, according to multiple reports.

According to reporting, the administration’s plan is intended to supplement Transportation Security Administration operations rather than replace them. Officials said ICE agents, who are already present at many airports for investigative work, could be assigned to support functions such as monitoring exits or assisting with general security duties.

Homan addressed questions about training, noting that ICE agents are experienced law enforcement personnel. “ICE agents receive a high level of training,” he said, adding that they already conduct criminal investigations related to smuggling at airports. He also indicated that ICE agents would not necessarily take on specialized screening roles, such as operating X-ray machines, but could relieve TSA personnel by handling other responsibilities.

Federal officials said the deployment is being developed in coordination with TSA leadership, with details still being finalized ahead of implementation.

The plan has drawn criticism from some lawmakers and labor groups, who have raised concerns about the use of personnel not specifically trained in aviation screening. A union representing TSA workers said replacing trained officers with other agents could introduce risks, emphasizing the specialized training required for airport security roles.

Supporters of the plan argue that ICE personnel can provide immediate assistance in areas that do not require specialized screening certification, allowing TSA agents to focus on primary checkpoint duties and potentially reduce wait times for travelers.

The deployment is expected to begin as coordination between federal agencies continues, with officials indicating that specific assignments and locations will be determined as the plan is implemented.