Protesters call for end to ICE deportation flights from King County airport

Rally held at King County International Airport to demand halt to deportation flights

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Protesters gathered at King County International Airport in Seattle, Washington to call for an end to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deportation flights operating out of the airport. The rally was organized by local advocacy groups seeking to halt the practice of using the county-owned airport for deportation flights.

Why it matters

The use of King County International Airport for ICE deportation flights has been a source of controversy, with critics arguing it goes against the county's policies aimed at protecting immigrant communities. The rally highlights the ongoing tensions between federal immigration enforcement and local jurisdictions seeking to limit cooperation with ICE.

The details

Demonstrators gathered outside the airport terminals, chanting slogans and carrying signs demanding that King County officials take action to stop the deportation flights. Organizers say the flights have separated families and caused undue hardship for immigrant communities in the region.

  • The rally took place on February 19, 2026.

The players

King County International Airport

A county-owned airport located in Seattle, Washington that has been used by ICE for deportation flights.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal law enforcement agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws, including deportations.

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What they’re saying

“We won't stop until ICE is out of our county and our communities are free from the fear of deportation.”

— Marta Reyes, Organizer, immigrant rights group

What’s next

Organizers say they plan to continue pressuring King County officials to take action to halt the use of the airport for deportation flights.

The takeaway

The rally highlights the ongoing tensions between federal immigration enforcement efforts and local jurisdictions seeking to limit cooperation with ICE in order to protect immigrant communities.