Burlington Airport and ICE Transports: Why Transparency Matters- VT Digger

This week, advocates across Vermont raised a critical alarm: our state’s largest airport — Patrick Leahy Burlington International — is quietly playing a significant role in federal immigration enforcement.

At the Burlington Airport Commission meeting on July 2, community members presented data suggesting that since January 2025, over 450 individuals detained by ICE have been transferred through the airport. Many were moved during early morning hours, often without access to legal counsel impeding due process rights.

“The airport, at a minimum, has a responsibility to let the public know what’s happening inside these walls, and on the tarmac.”
— Julie Macuga, advocate

VAAP stood in support of these advocates, affirming the importance of transparency and accountability when it comes to immigration operations that impact our neighbors, friends, and clients.

As public pressure grows, we echo the call for the Burlington Airport Commission to take a stand — not only to acknowledge what is happening, but to advocate for policies that protect human rights and dignity.

Read the full story here at VT Digger, where they highlight VAAP’s support to those raising their voices with concerns over the matter, affirming the importance of transparency and accountability when it comes to immigration operations in the community.