Delta Halts VIP Services for Congress Amid DHS Shutdown, TSA Delays
Travelers across the United States are facing prolonged waits at airport security amid the ongoing partial DHS shutdown. Long checkpoint lines and staffing shortages have snarled spring travel. Airlines and lawmakers are reacting to the disruption.
Delta suspends congressional perks
Filmogaz.com confirmed that Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines has paused specialty services for members of Congress. The airline cited strained resources tied to the long-running DHS shutdown as the reason for the pause.
Delta had offered VIP services for Congress, including expedited screening and escorted access to gates. The carrier also suspended its special congressional desk service until the shutdown ends.
Airport chaos and TSA delays
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport saw reports of security lines stretching as long as nine hours. An airport advisory urged passengers to allow at least four hours for domestic or international screening.
Unpaid and understaffed TSA workforces have contributed to the backlog. Acting Deputy TSA Administrator Adam Stahl warned that delays could worsen without additional DHS funding.
ICE deployment and local effects
Customs and border agents were sent to some airports to assist screening operations. On-site reporting found lines eased in Atlanta after the agents arrived, though reactions were mixed.
Significant waits were also reported at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. Airlines and airports urged travelers to plan for additional screening time.
Political responses and legislative moves
The Senate approved a measure by unanimous consent to end congressional screening privileges. Senator John Cornyn introduced the proposal to eliminate the bypass perk.
Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., said the DHS has been shut for 38 days. He proposed reopening most DHS operations while funding ICE through reconciliation to bypass a Senate filibuster.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune discussed the plan with President Trump, Kennedy said. Kennedy also tied the debate to the SAVE America Act and the nomination of Sen. Markwayne Mullin as DHS secretary.
Political pressure
Republican operatives targeted Sen. Jon Ossoff over votes tied to the shutdown. Supporters of change argued ending privileges would restore public trust.
Some senators, including Ashley Moody, praised private offers to help TSA workers. The dispute highlights pressure from unpaid federal employees and mounting public frustration.
Business and travel industry impact
Delta’s headquarters in Atlanta placed the carrier near the epicenter of the disruptions. The airline said its top priorities remain safety and caring for employees and customers.
Airlines warn that prolonged DHS funding gaps will further intensify TSA delays. Travelers were advised to expect continued disruptions until lawmakers resolve the shutdown.
