Top executives at the major U.S. airlines have been vocal in sharing their frustrations amid the ongoing partial government shutdown, which has resulted in Transportation Security Administration (TSA) staffing shortages, lengthy airport security lines, and flight delays.
The partial shutdown began on February 14 when funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) lapsed. TSA officers are classified as essential workers, meaning they’re still required to show up, even without pay.
Because of financial uncertainty, many employees called out sick or quit altogether. As the weeks went by, staffing shortages worsened, and wait times grew longer.
Airline bosses are at the end of their ropes
Airline leaders are fed up with the ongoing shutdown. Last month, several airline CEOs signed an open letter to Congress demanding that lawmakers “immediately come together to reach an agreement to fund the Department of Homeland Security.”
Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta Air Lines, was among the executives to sign the letter.
In a recent appearance on the Fox Business show The Claman Countdown, he called the situation a travesty. “We are beyond frustrated at the lack of leadership that’s coming out of Congress,” Bastian said.
Bastian also defended his decision to temporarily suspend the special airport perks that Delta extends to members of Congress. He explained that it would be inappropriate to continue offering lawmakers preferential treatment considering the circumstances.
Normally, Delta provides VIP services to members of Congress, like airport escorts, expedited security screening, and priority customer service.
“We want to make sure they understand [what they’re doing] and stand in line just like everybody else,” he said.
Yesterday, in a letter to Delta SkyMiles members, Bastian gave an update, saying that wait times had returned to normal levels.
He thanked travelers who had been impacted by long waits over the past several weeks, expressing appreciation for their patience and understanding. He also extended his thanks to TSA employees and Delta staff.
Airlines navigate additional setbacks
The government shutdown isn’t the only challenge airlines are navigating right now. Jet fuel prices have continued to climb amid the conflict in the Middle East. Industry executives have warned the supply could run low.
Airline executives are responding to the rapidly rising operational costs by cutting back on flights and raising ticket fares. Earlier this week, JetBlue increased its checked bag fees.
Travel demand has remained steady. Many travelers have their spring break and summer travel plans already booked. But if prices continue to rise, demand could decrease.
Waits are shorter as TSA workers begin to receive backpay
The partial shutdown has now stretched past 40 days. Congress still hasn’t reached a funding agreement. However, TSA workers began receiving paychecks earlier this week.
On March 27, President Trump signed an executive order directing the DHS to begin paying TSA officers their back pay. In the days since, wait times have improved at many U.S. airports, though some locations still face staffing issues.