Rep. Roy Demands Answers from Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport Over Reports of a Christian Denied Access to Chapel

Washington, D.C.  — Representative Chip Roy (TX-21) demands answers from Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) CEO Chris McLaughlin regarding troubling reports that a Christian pastor was denied access to the airport’s interfaith chapel during a Muslim-led prayer service.

“On September 26, Pastor Tom Ascol recounted responding to an airport-wide announcement inviting passengers to a “prayer service” in the chapel, which explicitly stated “all are welcome.” Upon arrival, however, he found the space occupied by an Imam-led prayer, complete with prayer rugs and participants. According to his account, he was denied entry and effectively barred from practicing his faith.” Rep. Roy wrote.  

“DFW’s chapels are supposed to be open to all travelers, not closed off or co-opted for one group at the exclusion of others,” Roy noted. “To deny Christians’ entry into a public chapel in one of America’s largest airports undermines the very mission of an interfaith space.”

Roy emphasized that DFW Airport, as a public institution, is supported by Texas taxpayers and sustained by millions in federal infrastructure and aviation grants—making neutrality and equal access a clear obligation.

“Taxpayers deserve to know whether their dollars are subsidizing exclusion,” Roy concluded. “DFW must guarantee that its chapels remain true to their purpose: open to all travelers, at all times.”

The full text of Rep. Roy’s letter to DFW Airport can be found here.