Leading airline, tourism, cargo, and business organizations are warning that suspending border processing operations at Newark Liberty International Airport or other major U.S. gateways could cause widespread disruptions across the country’s transportation network.
Industry leaders say such a move could leave thousands of travelers stranded, interfere with critical cargo shipments, and create significant economic consequences for communities that rely on international travel and trade.
Newark Airport at Center of Federal Dispute
The concerns follow remarks made Thursday by Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, who indicated that the Trump administration may soon stop processing international passengers and cargo at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey.
Newark serves as one of the primary international gateways for the New York metropolitan area and handles a substantial volume of overseas travel and freight each year.
According to Mullin, the administration’s concerns stem from what it views as insufficient cooperation from local law enforcement agencies with federal immigration authorities in New Jersey.
Other Airports Could Also Face Restrictions
Mullin has repeatedly suggested that similar actions could be considered at more than a dozen airports located in jurisdictions commonly referred to as “sanctuary cities.”
Among the airports mentioned are those serving:
- Boston
- Denver
- Philadelphia
- Chicago
- Los Angeles
- Seattle
- San Francisco
The possibility of restricting customs and immigration processing at multiple major airports has raised alarms throughout the aviation and business sectors.
Industry Groups Warn of Nationwide Impact
In a joint statement released Friday, several prominent organizations—including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Airlines for America, the National Retail Federation, and the U.S. Travel Association—argued that halting customs operations at key airports could create severe disruptions.
The groups stated that international aviation networks are deeply interconnected, meaning operational changes at only a few major airports could quickly affect flights, passengers, cargo movement, and supply chains across the country.
They cautioned that disruptions at major entry points could ripple throughout the broader transportation system and negatively affect businesses and communities nationwide.
Airline Executives Doubt Immediate Action
Although concerns remain high, some airline industry leaders believe immediate restrictions are unlikely.
According to Reuters, three airline executives said Friday that they do not currently expect the administration to move forward with such measures in the near future.
The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the proposal.
Dispute Centers on Immigration Enforcement
Mullin has previously criticized local authorities in New Jersey, claiming they have not adequately assisted federal immigration personnel.
Specifically, he alleged that local police were not helping ensure federal immigration officers could access and leave a detention facility in the state.
As part of his warning, Mullin suggested that customs personnel could potentially be reassigned away from Newark Airport, which could significantly affect international flight processing.
Travel Industry Warns of Massive Economic Consequences
The U.S. Travel Association estimates that shutting down international processing at the 18 airports serving sanctuary cities would have a dramatic impact on both travelers and the economy.
According to the organization:
- More than 68 million international passengers annually could be affected.
- The economic impact could exceed $70 billion.
- Over 20,000 international travelers arrive at Newark every day.
- Approximately 14,000 of those daily arrivals are U.S. citizens returning home.
The association warned that American travelers could face canceled flights, diversions, and lengthy disruptions if processing operations were halted.
International visitors would likely encounter similar challenges.
FIFA World Cup Adds Urgency to Concerns
Industry groups also highlighted the timing of the proposal, noting that the FIFA World Cup is set to begin in the coming weeks.
The tournament, which is being jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to attract large numbers of international visitors.
The championship match is scheduled for July 19 in East Rutherford, New Jersey, located roughly 12 miles from Newark Liberty International Airport.
Travel organizations argue that significant airport disruptions during this period could damage the United States’ reputation as an international destination and create lasting negative perceptions among foreign visitors.
Cargo Shipments Could Also Be Affected
The concerns extend beyond passenger travel.
Industry representatives say a shutdown of customs processing could jeopardize billions of dollars in imported goods that move through affected airports each year.
Products that could face delays include:
- Pharmaceuticals
- Semiconductor components
- High-value commercial goods
- Time-sensitive cargo shipments
The Cargo Airline Association warned that air freight operations cannot simply be shifted elsewhere without creating major economic consequences.
According to the organization, interruptions to cargo flows would impact supply chains, manufacturers, retailers, and consumers across multiple industries.
Industry Calls for Stability
Business and travel groups continue urging federal officials to avoid measures that could disrupt airport operations at key international gateways.
They argue that maintaining smooth passenger processing and cargo movement is essential not only for travelers but also for economic growth, international commerce, and the nation’s global reputation.
With millions of passengers, billions in trade, and major international events approaching, industry leaders say the stakes are exceptionally high.
