Delta Pulls Perks From Congress Amid Shutdown Fight

Lawmakers heading through airports are losing a familiar convenience as the battle over federal funding drags on in Washington, D.C.

According to the New York Post, Delta Air Lines has suspended special travel services for members of Congress and their staff, citing strain caused by the ongoing partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security.

The move targets a long-standing set of perks that helped lawmakers navigate airports more easily, including escorts and premium assistance services.

While a dedicated reservation line for Capitol Hill travelers remains active, those flying with Delta will now be “treated as any passenger based on their respective SkyMiles status.”

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

“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’s decision comes as pressure builds over the lapse in funding for the Department of Homeland Security, which has left thousands of Transportation Security Administration workers without full pay for weeks.

Ed Bastian, the company’s chief executive, has been outspoken about the situation. He recently criticized lawmakers for allowing the impasse to continue, calling it “inexcusable.”

“It’s inexcusable that our security agents, our frontline agents, that are essential to what we do, are not being paid, and it’s ridiculous to see them being used as political chips,” Bastian said. “We’re outraged.”