New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker is condemning Avelo Airlines' decision to operate federal deportation flights from Arizona starting in May.

Budget carrier Avelo, which flies out of Tweed New Haven Airport, signed the agreement. CEO Andrew Levy said the long-term charter program would aid expansion and protect jobs.

Elicker said, "Avelo Airlines' decision to charter deportation flights from Mesa Gateway Airport in Arizona is deeply disappointing and disturbing. For a company that champions themselves as 'New Haven's hometown airline,' this business decision is antithetical to New Haven's values." He added, "Travel should be about bringing people together, not tearing families apart."