Delta Air Lines announced that it will suspend its special airport services—such as terminal escorts and red‑coat assistance—for members of Congress and their staff, effective immediately. The decision follows the ongoing partial government shutdown, which has left TSA agents unpaid and unable to provide the usual expedited security processing.
The suspension covers only the special services; Delta’s Capital Desk for congressional travel remains operational. Priority for all passengers will now be determined by SkyMiles status rather than congressional role, ensuring a consistent approach for all travelers.
Delta’s spokesperson said the move was driven by resource constraints caused by the shutdown, which has led to high absenteeism among TSA agents—up to 55% at some airports—and long security lines. The airline cited the need to maintain safety and customer service standards for all passengers.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian criticized the shutdown, calling it “inexcusable” that frontline security agents are being used as political chips, and urged Congress to ensure agents are paid. The decision follows a bill introduced by Rep. John Cornyn to end special treatment for Congress at airports and a Senate vote to stop allowing members of Congress to skip security lines.
By suspending preferential treatment, Delta signals a commitment to fairness and operational integrity amid a crisis that has strained airport security resources. The move may improve public perception of the airline, while other carriers have not announced similar changes.
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