Get ready for some tea, Bay Area travel enthusiasts – Avelo Airlines just pulled the ultimate plot twist that’ll make your head spin faster than a budget airline boarding process. 🌪️

Remember that quirky little budget carrier that was zipping people between Sonoma and other California destinations? Well, they’ve just traded their passenger-friendly image for something way more controversial. Avelo has decided to become the newest contractor for ICE deportation flights, effectively turning their Boeing 737s into what some are calling “family separation express”.

From Friendly Skies to Hostile Borders

In a move that’s about as popular as surge pricing during NYE, Avelo’s CEO Andrew Levy claimed this contract would provide “stability” for their 1,100 employees. Translation: We’re selling our soul for a government paycheck. The airline will now operate charter flights out of Mesa Gateway Airport in Arizona, targeting undocumented migrants for deportation.

Community Backlash Brewing

Local resistance is already heating up faster than Silicon Valley startup drama. Sonoma County Supervisor Lynda Hopkins didn’t mince words, declaring “They’ll never get another dime from me” – a sentiment that’s likely resonating with many Bay Area residents who pride themselves on being progressive.

The Political High-Altitude Drama

A petition has already launched in New Haven, Connecticut, calling for a boycott of Avelo “until they stop plans to profit off ICE flights that are tearing families and communities apart”. It looks like Avelo just traded its reputation for a controversial government contract – and the internet is NOT here for it.

Talk about a career pivot that makes LinkedIn look boring! While Avelo plans to shut down Sonoma County flights on May 1st and start deportation runs on May 12th, they’ve basically transformed from a regional budget airline to a controversial deportation service. Bay Area, buckle up – this is one turbulent ride you didn’t see coming. ✈️🚫