(SRN NEWS/REUTERS/97.5 GLORY FM) – Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines said on Tuesday it would suspend special services for members of Congress, citing the impact of a partial government shutdown that has disrupted U.S. air travel.
“Due to the impact on resources from the longstanding government shutdown, Delta will temporarily suspend specialty 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 carriers said in a statement.
Delta, like other U.S. airlines, typically provides special services for lawmakers who fly frequently back and forth from Washington and oversee the nation’s air travel system.
Members of Congress will not get airport escorts or VIP treatment for other services like seat upgrades or rebooking, expedited security, airport escorts, and specialized assistance, meaning lawmakers are being treated like any other passenger.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian told CNBC last week that it was time to pay TSA workers.
“It’s inexcusable,” Bastian said, noting that TSA officers were forced to miss paychecks last fall as well. “It’s ridiculous to see them being used as political chits. We’re outraged.”
