DHS defends Kristi Noem’s use of 737, says jet saves taxpayers tens of millions

WASHINGTON, DC: The Department of Homeland Security defended Secretary Kristi Noem’s use of a 737 Max jet, countering reports that the aircraft was a lavish perk and that a pilot was fired over a misplaced weighted blanket.

DHS officials said the newer jets are not only necessary for operational efficiency but also save taxpayer money.

NewsNation reached out to DHS following a Wall Street Journal report claiming Noem and White House advisor Corey Lewandowski frequently traveled on a leased 737 Max jet. The article also suggested internal concerns about personnel decisions related to the aircraft.

DHS claims 737 serves dual missions

DHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin said the 737 Max serves a “dual mission,” transporting ICE deportees and facilitating cabinet-level travel. She added that the aircraft operates at 40% lower costs than traditional military flights for deportation missions, which she said “saves the American taxpayer hundreds of millions of dollars.”

McLaughlin emphasized that Noem’s focus on efficiency has produced significant savings, claiming the department has saved $13.1 billion to date through better resource management.

Kristi Noem advocates for modern jets

The deployment of the new jets follows Noem’s support for DHS’s $170 million purchase of two Gulfstream jets for the Coast Guard, one of which is reserved for her use. She argued the acquisitions replace planes that had been in service for over 25 years.

Democrats criticized the spending. House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro accused Noem of prioritizing personal convenience over Coast Guard personnel needs. In December, DHS also signed a $140 million contract for six Boeing 737 jets for deportation operations. 

Weighted blanket incident leads to pilot dispute 

The Wall Street Journal reported that a Coast Guard pilot was briefly fired after a weighted blanket was left behind when Noem and Lewandowski switched planes due to maintenance issues. The pilot was later reinstated. DHS described the personnel decision as part of Noem’s efforts to “deliver excellence.”