Delta Airlines suspends congressional speciality services

(NBC, KYMA) - The ongoing government shutdown is now impacting air travel in a new way. This time affecting members of Congress.

Delta Airlines says it is temporarily cutting off special airport services for members of Congress, citing strain on resources tied to the prolonged government shutdown.

In a statement Tuesday, the airline said the move comes as the industry continues to feel the effects of unpaid Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers.

TSA employees have now missed their third round of paychecks after funding for parts of the Department of Homeland Security lapsed amid a political stalemate between the White House and Congress over immigration and voting policies.

Lawmakers typically receive expedited screening, airport escorts to bypass long security lines, and access to dedicated reservation desks for last-minute travel changes.

Delta says the decision reflects growing operational challenges, adding that beyond safety, its top priority remains caring for employees and customers during what it calls an increasingly difficult environment.