Avelo Airlines to Exit Burbank Amid Financial Struggles and DHS Controversy

Avelo Airlines, a Texas-based low-cost carrier, announced plans to shut down its base at Hollywood Burbank Airport by December 2, citing financial challenges and an uncompetitive market. The airline, which currently operates 13 routes from the airport, will scale back to one aircraft before fully exiting the location.

The decision comes amid growing backlash over Avelo’s contract with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to operate migrant deportation flights. Signed in April, the deal sparked nationwide protests and boycott calls, especially in California and Connecticut, where the airline has major operations.

Despite public pressure, Avelo insists the closure is unrelated to the DHS controversy. In a statement, the airline said continued service at Burbank no longer makes financial sense given the West Coast’s competitive landscape. The company added that multiple operational adjustments over recent years failed to yield sustainable returns.

However, activists believe their efforts played a role. Nancy Klein, a Hollywood-based protest organizer affiliated with CA27Indivisible and East Valley Indivisible, claims Avelo’s retreat reflects the impact of organized dissent. She has led seven protests targeting the airline and plans another demonstration at Burbank Airport on July 27.

While Avelo maintains that business factors drove the decision, the controversy surrounding its involvement in deportation flights continues to shape public perception. The airline faces ongoing scrutiny from employees and customers who oppose its partnership with DHS.

The closure marks a significant shift in Avelo’s West Coast strategy as it reevaluates operations amid mounting political and financial pressures. Whether the carrier’s reputation can recover remains uncertain as protests and calls for accountability persist.