The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has completed its first flight under a new voluntary deportation plan. This program offers money to migrants who agree to leave the U.S. willingly.

Migrants Receive Cash to Return Home

The program, which started in March, encourages self-deportation. In exchange, the government gives each migrant “a $1,000 payment”. This money helps them settle after returning home.

First Charter Flight Takes Off

On Monday, DHS arranged the first chartered flight under this plan. As a result, 64 people from Honduras and Colombia boarded the plane. According to a DHS official, the flight took off from Houston at 9:30 a.m.

Earlier, the government had covered travel costs for some migrants on commercial airlines. However, this was the first official flight arranged only for self-deporting individuals.

U.S. Aims for Peaceful Immigration Management

Meanwhile, the Biden administration hopes this program reduces forced removals. By offering financial help, the government wants to make voluntary return more appealing. Eventually, officials believe this will lead to a more peaceful and orderly immigration process.