economy
Delta suspends 'specialty services' perk for members of Congress, cites DHS shutdown
Delta Air Lines' move comes as airports around the U.S. are seeing extra-long security lines as a result of elevated absences by TSA agents.
TL;DR
- Delta Air Lines has suspended airport escorts and red coat services for members of Congress and staff.
- The airline cited the ongoing partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security as the reason for the suspension.
- Delta CEO Ed Bastian had previously criticized Congress for not authorizing pay for TSA agents during the shutdown.
- The move comes as airports nationwide are experiencing longer security lines due to increased TSA agent absences.
- Delta's Capital Desk reservation line for lawmakers remains open, but they will be treated based on Sky Miles status.
- United Airlines has not announced similar changes, while American Airlines' stance is pending comment.
- Airline executives have urged lawmakers to ensure essential government workers are paid during shutdowns.