Delta Airlines CEO Ed Bastian said that coming off a "tough" week for the airline, air travel should be "close to normal" by this weekend, should the government shutdown end today. Watch more: cnb.cx/47QyxZA | CNBC

Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian backed the FAA's decision to mandate flight cuts during the government shutdown, saying there was "no question" that the conditions posed a safety risk. Bastian expressed frustration with the air travel industry suffering collateral damage during the shutdown, saying the company doesn't like "being a political football." He also urged officials to make sure air traffic controllers are paid the next time there’s a shutdown. Watch more: cnb.cx/47QyxZA | CNBC

We’ve all been there. And when we are, kindness can mean everything. Shoutout to Flight Attendant Link P. for being the Delta Difference and understanding that sometimes all you need when you’re traveling is a helping hand. | Delta Air Lines