The U.S. government pays $464 million for planes and then doesn't use them.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has spent $464 million on seven used Boeing 737 aircraft, yet they remain largely unused and parked at a Louisiana airport. The purchase was made under former Secretary Kristi Noem, who was removed from her position earlier this year by President Donald Trump and replaced with Markwayne Mullin. According to internal government documents obtained by the New York Times, the department lacks the personnel necessary to operate the planes, which were intended for urgent deportation operations. The acquisition came amid promises during Trump’s campaign for the largest deportation program in American history, backed by senior advisor Stephen Miller, who had previously announced plans for one million deportations annually. The purchase of the ten aircraft, seven Boeing 737 models and three luxury jets, was conducted without competitive bidding, a practice often associated with the Trump administration. The deal was finalized with a Virginia-based firm for $464 million, significantly above market value. Officials cited urgency as the reason for bypassing standard procurement procedures. However, more than six months later, the planes have seen minimal use. Seven of the older Boeing 737 models have been sitting idle at a Louisiana airport since early 2026, while the remaining three luxury jets were reportedly leased to FBI Director Kash Patel for a period of twelve months. Democratic senators criticized this move, noting that the FBI already possesses its own fleet of aircraft for the director's travel needs. According to the New York Times report, there is no immediate need for the Department of Homeland Security to maintain its own fleet for deportation flights. Charter planes from private companies, along with military and Coast Guard aircraft, have long been used for such purposes. This approach avoids the costs associated with maintenance and crew training. When asked about the purchase, the department stated that the transaction occurred under Noem’s leadership before Mullin was sworn into office. However, Noem’s spokesperson claimed the deal was completed under Mullin’s tenure, with contract costs increasing by $303 million on the day of his swearing-in. In addition to the aircraft purchase, the Department of Homeland Security acquired eleven warehouses for approximately $1 billion under Noem’s leadership, intending to convert them into detention centers for migrants. These purchases were also made without competitive bidding. Under Mullin’s direction, seven of these warehouses, costing over $700 million, are set to be sold or even donated. The department has indicated that it intends to retain the right to adjust course, citing similar actions taken in other investments. Regarding the Boeing 737s, the department explained that it requires a long-term contractor capable of providing crews and maintenance staff. A recent public tender suggests that such a contract could begin as early as next summer. Meanwhile, the company that supplied the ten aircraft had previously contributed to a political committee that supported Noem during her time as governor of South Dakota. The situation highlights ongoing concerns about the efficiency and accountability of federal spending, particularly within the Department of Homeland Security. With multiple high-profile purchases made under different leadership transitions, questions remain about the necessity and management of these assets. The lack of immediate operational use raises further scrutiny regarding the allocation of taxpayer funds and the strategic planning behind such large-scale acquisitions.