AfA warns DHS of customs reduction

The Airforwarders Association (AfA) has warned in a letter to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) about potential impacts of a reduction in customs processing at key airports. These measures could significantly disrupt the handling of time-sensitive and security-related goods being imported into the United States. The warning follows reports that the DHS plans to reduce or completely halt Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operations at certain airports in so-called „Sanctuary Cities.“

Brandon Fried, the executive director of the AfA, emphasized that any significant reduction in customs processing capacity at major gateway airports would lead to immediate disruptions in time-sensitive supply chains. „Customs processing is not just an administrative function; it is a critical component of our national security and economic resilience,“ Fried stated.

The AfA highlights that customs clearance for the transport of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, manufacturing components, e-commerce goods, perishable items, and other products is crucial, as these rely on the speed and reliability of air freight. A backlog in customs processing at major airports such as New York-JFK, Chicago-O’Hare, Los Angeles, or Miami could not only lead to delayed deliveries but also to serious consequences such as the loss of temperature-sensitive medications or delays in patient treatment.

The AfA also warns that logistics networks for freight cannot simply be rebooked or redirected overnight. Operations are tailored to specific airports, and a rerouting would require months of coordination and investments that are not available in an emergency. „Airports serve not only their own metropolitan areas but also act as central hubs for freight distributed across the country,“ Fried added.

The AfA urges the DHS and CBP to maintain current staffing levels at customs facilities and to consult with the air freight and logistics industry before considering changes that could impact customs processing capacity. „A disruption at just one major gateway would have national consequences for the supply chains that rely on secure and timely customs processing,“ Fried concluded.

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