Delta suspends particular journey perks for Congress as DHS shutdown rages on

WASHINGTON (TNND) — Delta Air Lines introduced Tuesday it will be suspending particular perks for Congress members and employees due to the continuing Department of Homeland Security shutdown.

The airline advised CNBC that as a result of impression on sources from the “longstanding goverment shutdown, Delta will temporarily suspend specialty services like airport escorts and red coat services to members of Congress flying Delta.

Next to safety, Delta’s No. 1 priority is taking care of our people and customers, which has become increasingly difficult in the current environment,” the airline told the outlet.

However, Delta’s Capital Desk, a reservation line for members of Congress and staffers, remains open at this time.

With the suspension in place, Congress members will receive the same treatment as other passengers, based on their Sky Miles status.

Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., applauded the move, writing in a post on X, “We applaud @Delta. If the Senate cannot get it collectively and fund TSA, allow them to really feel what each different American is feeling. Stand with the individuals you are alleged to serve.”

Last week, Delta CEO Ed Bastian joined 9 different aviation CEOs in writing an open letter to Congress, stressing the significance of paying federal aviation staff throughout shutdowns.

In remarks to CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” Bastian called the lack of payment to TSA employees inexcusable.

It’s ridiculous to see them used as political chips. We’re outraged. Over 90% of the American public supports these people getting paid. Ask our folks in Washington to do their job and get our people paid. They can do it,” Bastian stated.

The transfer by Delta comes as airports throughout the nation are seeing long security lines on account of absences by TSA brokers, who will miss their second full paycheck this week.

This week, President Donald Trump responded by sending Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers into some airports to help with the stream of site visitors.