Legacy carriers like Delta normally roll out the red carpet for members of Congress.
Videos by TravelAwaits
The idea is simple: To make the discomfort of air travel a little more manageable for those responsible for upholding the Constitution.
But with the second government shutdown in a year wreaking havoc on airport security lines and creating expensive problems (yet again) for airlines, Delta has decided to cut its specialized operations for members of Congress.
Delta Airlines has consistently been critical of the ongoing shutdowns’ impact on air travel. Last year, the shutdown affected both ATC agents and TSA officers, neither of whom were paid during the shutdown. During the most recent shutdown, which is only affecting TSA officers, nine CEOs of the US’s top airlines penned an open letter to Congress urging them to find a resolution.
During the second shutdown, Delta’s CEO has shown even less patience.
CEO Ed Bastian said on CNBC’s show Squawk Box, “It’s inexcusable that our security agents, front-line workers central to what we do, are not being paid. It’s ridiculous to see them used as political chips.”
Bastian brought down the hammer on March 24, 2026, with his decision to suspend special treatment for members of Congress. Here’s what we know.
What services is Delta suspending for Congresspeople?
Starting today, Congresspeople flying with Delta can expect to fly just like any ordinary American. If they’re a member, they can access any perks using Sky Miles. If they aren’t, they can pay for upgrades out of pocket.
According to a statement from Delta released to CNBC, “Due to the impact on resources from the longstanding government shutdown, Delta will temporarily suspend specialty services to members of Congress flying Delta.”
So, what’s suspended?
Delta’s ‘red coat’ assistance usually covers things like private airport escorts, fast-tracked airport support, and priority services. Just days earlier, on March 19, the Senate also passed legislation that would bar politicians from skipping airport security lines—although it hasn’t yet been signed off by the House of Representatives or the President.
However, Delta has not suspended its Capitol Desk, which is a special line that takes reservations exclusively from members of Congress.
