Delta Air Lines CEO Sends Clear Message to Congress

Over the past several weeks, a partial government shutdown led to long lines at the airport as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) faced staffing shortages with workers going unpaid. Though airport security lines are now returning to normal, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian is still frustrated.

Though TSA workers are now receiving some back pay and many are returning to work, Bastian sent a pointed message to Congress, which still has not agreed on a deal to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the TSA, for allowing the situation to get so bad.

TSA Lines Return to Normal

On Monday, Bastian sent an open letter to Delta customers informing them that wait times have returned to "normal levels."

"Over the past few weeks, many of you have experienced longer-than-usual wait times at airport security checkpoints as a result of the partial government shutdown. While TSA lines at the majority of Delta’s hubs have been manageable, wait times have been unacceptably long during peak travel times at some airports, particularly in Atlanta and New York," Bastian wrote in his open letter.

"Fortunately, with paychecks now being restored for TSA officers, wait times have returned to normal levels. To those of you who experienced long waits, I want to personally thank you for your patience and understanding. I also want to express my thanks to the TSA professionals who worked without pay to ensure our airports were safe and secure. And I’m grateful to the 100,000 Delta employees - the best aviation professionals in the business – who took care of our customers and provided the level of care that you deserve during a challenging period for travel."

Despite the chaotic few weeks, Bastian wants customers to know that they can rely on Delta.

"I want you to know that you can continue to travel with confidence on Delta. We remain focused on delivering the reliable operation, clear communication, and care you deserve, on every trip, every day. Thank you for choosing Delta, and for being a valued SkyMiles Member," Bastian wrote.

'Beyond Frustrated' With Congress

During a recent appearance on the Fox Business show The Claman Countdown, Bastian sent a clear message to Congress as he blasted lawmakers for their inability to come to terms on a deal to pay TSA workers.

“We are beyond frustrated at the lack of leadership that’s coming out of Congress,” Bastian said.

In the midst of the partial government shutdown, Delta chose to suspend the special airport perks that it extends to members of Congress.

Typically, Delta provides VIP services to the lawmakers, such as airport escorts, expedited security screening, and priority customer service. However, Bastian explained that it would have been inappropriate to continue offering lawmakers that sort of preferential treatment, given the situation.

“We want to make sure they understand [what they’re doing] and stand in line just like everybody else,” he said.