Delta has suspended some special services for members of Congress amid the ongoing government shutdown.
According to the airline giant, federal lawmakers are not currently receiving perks such as airport escorts and red coat services. Members of Congress are now treated as regular passengers, with priority based solely on their respective SkyMiles status.
In a statement, Delta wrote:
“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 Capital Desk, a dedicated reservations line for Congress, remains open.
On Capitol Hill, senators are discussing a proposal to end the Homeland Security budget stalemate by funding much of the department, including Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers who are not being paid. At least 458 TSA officers have quit since the government shutdown began on Feb. 14, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
The deal would exclude Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) officers who have been directed by President Trump to provide security in the absence TSA staff.