FOLLOW US

Delta Air Lines has suspended airport escorts and red coat services for members of Congress and their staff due to the ongoing partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the airline confirmed Tuesday.

Specialty Services Paused

Delta CEO Ed Bastian previously criticized Congress for failing to fund Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents during the agency’s shutdown, calling it “inexcusable” and “ridiculous” in a CNBC interview last week.

“Due to the impact on resources from the longstanding government shutdown, Delta will temporarily suspend specialty services to members of Congress flying Delta,” the airline said in a statement.

Delta emphasized that safety remains a top priority, followed closely by taking care of its employees and passengers—an effort complicated by the current federal shutdown.

Impact on Congressional Travelers

Delta’s Capital Desk, a dedicated reservation line for members of Congress and staffers, remains operational. However, VIP passengers will now be treated like regular travelers, with perks determined solely by their SkyMiles status.

The suspension comes amid widespread airport delays, particularly at major hubs like Atlanta, as TSA agent absences continue to cause long security lines. Many agents are missing their second consecutive paycheck due to the shutdown.

Executive Frustration and Wider Industry Response

Bastian voiced outrage at Congress, stating, “It’s inexcusable that our security agents, our frontline agents…are not being paid. And it’s ridiculous to see them being used as political chips.” He added that more than 90% of Americans support paying essential workers during shutdowns.

Other airlines are watching closely. United Airlines reported no change to perks for lawmakers, while American Airlines has yet to comment.

Executives across the industry have increasingly pressured lawmakers to ensure essential government workers, like TSA officers, are compensated promptly, citing previous shutdowns in 2019 and late 2025 that caused significant operational disruption.