A proposed policy linked to the Trump administration could significantly disrupt international travel routes for Australians heading to the United States. The plan, put forward by Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, would reportedly prevent “sanctuary cities” from hosting international airport entry points for foreign flights. Sanctuary cities are described as jurisdictions where local authorities limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. If implemented, the measure could affect major US destinations such as Los Angeles and San Francisco, which are among the most popula

A proposed policy linked to the Trump administration could significantly disrupt international travel routes for Australians heading to the United States.

The plan, put forward by Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, would reportedly prevent “sanctuary cities” from hosting international airport entry points for foreign flights. Sanctuary cities are described as jurisdictions where local authorities limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

If implemented, the measure could affect major US destinations such as Los Angeles and San Francisco, which are among the most popular arrival points for Australian travellers.

Los Angeles remains the leading gateway for Australians visiting the United States, particularly for tourism destinations like Disneyland. At present, most travellers from Australia arrive via California, with limited direct alternatives available.

The proposal could force longer and less convenient travel routes. For example, flights from Sydney to Dallas currently the only direct route to mainland USA would remain unaffected, but onward connections to key West Coast cities could become more complicated. Some travellers may instead be routed through longer stopovers, including Hawaii.

Aviation and economic analysts have warned that restricting access to major international hubs could have serious consequences for tourism and trade. Economist Patrick Chovanec described the potential impact as a major economic setback, arguing that cutting off key US entry points would increase costs and reduce efficiency in global travel networks.

Other major cities mentioned as potentially affected under the proposal include Seattle, Chicago, Denver, New Orleans, and Philadelphia.

The policy remains under discussion and has not yet been implemented, as reported by Nine News.

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