US plans to pause customs at sanctuary city airports
PUBLISHED May 26, 2026, 11:33 PM ET
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Washington — Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said on May 26 that the Trump administration is drawing up plans to stop processing international travellers and cargo at major U.S. airports in so-called 'sanctuary cities,' naming airports in Denver, Philadelphia, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York City, Newark, Seattle and San Francisco. The announcement, reiterated during a Fox News interview this week and following reports Mullin privately discussed the option with travel executives earlier in May, has prompted concerns about potential disruptions to air travel and commerce, possible economic impacts for hosting cities and ongoing monitoring by airlines and local officials while no formal policy has been announced.
By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Months before May 2026: President Trump raises possibility of restricting services to sanctuary cities.
- Early May 2026: Mullin reportedly tells travel executives DHS could stop customs processing.
- May 26, 2026: Mullin repeats on Fox News that plans are being drawn up.
- May 27, 2026: International outlets report potential impact on World Cup travel and named airports.
- Ongoing: No formal DHS policy announced; airlines and local officials monitor developments.
News Intelligence
- If you live in or travel through Denver, Philadelphia, Chicago, LA, NYC, Newark, Seattle, or San Francisco, this could impact you. International travel and cargo might slow down. This could mean longer lines and delays. Keep an eye on updates from your airline and local officials.
- Articles Published:
- 4
- Right Leaning:
- 1
- Left Leaning:
- 0
- Neutral:
- 3
- Distribution:
- Left 0%, Center 75%, Right 25%
Federal authorities could gain leverage over local governments by restricting international customs processing, potentially pressuring jurisdictions that decline to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement.
Airports, airlines, local economies, international travelers and tourism sectors could suffer route disruptions, lost revenue and logistical complications if customs processing is halted.
Coverage of Story:
From Left
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From Center
US plans to pause customs at sanctuary city airports
The Straits Times AsiaOne ABC7 NewsFrom Right
US draws up plans to halt immigration, customs processing at 'sanctuary city' airports ahead of World Cup
Malay Mail
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