Delta Air Lines suspends specialty services for members of Congress amid shutdown
Delta Air Lines announced Tuesday it is temporarily suspending "specialty services" to members of Congress due to resource constraints stemming from the ongoing partial government shutdown.
"Due to the impact on resources from the longstanding government shutdown, Delta will temporarily suspend specialty services to members of Congress flying Delta," the Atlanta-based carrier 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."
Airport escorts and red coat services will not be available to members of Congress during this time, but the Capital Desk reservations line will remain open, according to Delta, as first reported by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
The airline told the outlet that members of Congress will be treated like all other passengers, based on their respective SkyMiles status.
Since the partial government shutdown began last month, several airports, particularly major hubs like Atlanta, have experienced massive security lines due to staffing shortages, as TSA officer callouts reach new highs.
American Airlines did not immediately respond to ABC News' request for comment regarding any planned service suspensions.
United Airlines told ABC News it does not provide "VIP services" to members of Congress.
"To ensure compliance with ethics rules, United does not provide VIP services to members of Congress when they are traveling with us, other than services available to all customers based on their earned frequent flier status," the company said.
Southwest Airlines told ABC News it continues to engage with the federal partners and joins the airline industry in urging Congress to fund the TSA and CBP without further delay.
Editor’s note: This story has been updated with a statement from United Airlines.
