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EXCLUSIVE: When Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s flight from Guatemala faced issues on Thursday, she was able to catch a ride with Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
ICE had recently completed a deportation flight back to Central America, as the administration intensifies its efforts to remove individuals illegally residing in the U.S.
“Encountered some plane issues on the return from Guatemala. Thankfully, an ICE deportation flight carrying individuals with criminal records had just landed on the same tarmac,” Noem stated.
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An immigration officer was recently arrested and charged with taking bribes from immigrants. (Christopher Dilts/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
The secretary took this chance to urge individuals to consider self-deportation before facing potential detention or legal consequences.
For those without criminal records, options include free travel outside the U.S. and a $1,000 incentive. Additionally, any “failure to depart” fines will be waived.
“Caught a ride back on ICE Air—great flight. Use the [CBP Home] app to self deport now!” Noem added.
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Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on an ICE plane returning to the U.S. on June 26, 2025. (Department of Homeland Security)
According to DHS, the flight included individuals with drug trafficking, arson, and assault convictions. It departed from Alexandria, Louisiana, and landed in Guatemala just hours before Noem’s flight.
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The secretary recently concluded a visit to Central America, including stops in Panama, Honduras, and Costa Rica, where she announced potential agreements for asylum seekers.
“Honduras and Guatemala are now prepared to accept individuals and grant them refugee status,” Noem stated.
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U.S. soldiers implement measures at the Mexican border after a new order declaring a section as a National Defense Area was signed in New Mexico on May 8, 2025. (Can Hasasu/Anadolu via Getty Images)
“We’ve always believed that the U.S. shouldn’t be the sole destination; people should have safe and protected options for refuge,” she continued.
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The U.S. and Honduras also agreed to enhance cooperation on biometric identification.
“We’ve strengthened our partnership against illegal migration with a statement of intent for biometric cooperation—essential for identifying criminals and terrorists attempting to cross our borders,” Noem shared on social media on Thursday.
