12 Things in Travel You Need to Know Today
(This is a recurring post, updated daily with new information):
=== Sunday, October 25 ===
U.S. Embassies Tighten Security Amid Growing Threats From Iran
American embassies across the Middle East are on heightened alert following reports that Iran may be planning attacks targeting Americans. The U.S. has already ordered non-emergency government employees to leave Saudi Arabia, raising new concerns about safety and potential travel disruptions in the region. CNBC
JetBlue Creditors Hire Bankruptcy Advisers as Financial Pressures Mount
JetBlue is facing growing financial pressure as creditors reportedly hire bankruptcy advisers amid falling debt values. Rising fuel prices are making matters worse for airlines and travelers alike, with holiday round-trip airfares reportedly up about 23% compared to last year. TheStreet
Violent Protests Across Europe Raise Concerns for Travelers
Travelers heading to Europe should keep an eye on local news as demonstrations over rising living costs, housing shortages and public services continue. In France, authorities estimated that 550,000 people participated in protests last Saturday, with violence erupting in Paris, where cars were set on fire and businesses looted. The Independent
American Airlines Predicts Bigger Losses Despite Record Revenue
American Airlines is forecasting deeper losses for 2026 despite bringing in record revenue, largely because of soaring fuel costs. The carrier joins three other major U.S. airlines that have lowered their financial forecasts this month, and American plans to slow its growth next year as it tries to improve profitability. CNBC
Three Norwegian Cruise Line Passengers Arrested on Drug Charges
Three passengers attempting to board Norwegian Jewel in Miami for a Bahamas cruise were arrested after authorities allegedly discovered drugs in their luggage. Among the items reportedly found were gummies, pills, mushroom-branded chocolates and other suspicious substances. A good reminder that cruise passengers need to understand the laws governing what they can bring aboard. USA Today
Fewer Americans Are Flying, but Airfares Keep Climbing
Here’s something travelers won’t be happy to hear: TSA figures show fewer people are flying, yet ticket prices are climbing. Airfares have reportedly jumped more than 20% this year as airlines deal with higher fuel costs, while demand for premium cabins remains strong. CNBC
New York City Council Votes to Ban Horse-Drawn Carriages by 2028
One of New York City’s longtime tourist attractions could soon disappear. The City Council has approved legislation banning horse-drawn carriage rides by 2028, following the tragic death of an 18-year-old in a Central Park carriage accident earlier this year. CBS News
Royal Caribbean Cruise Heads to Canada Instead of the Bahamas
Imagine packing for a sunny Bahamas cruise and ending up in Canada! That’s what happened to passengers aboard Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas after an East Coast storm forced the cruise line to change its October 18 itinerary, replacing its planned southern route with an overnight stop in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Royal Caribbean Blog
Delta Passenger Arrested After Alleged Racist Outburst at JFK
Another disturbing example of bad behavior in the skies. A 60-year-old Brooklyn man was reportedly removed from a Delta flight at New York’s JFK Airport and arrested after allegedly launching into a racist tirade before takeoff. Daily Mail
How Air Canada Flies Professional Sports Teams Within the U.S.
Ever wonder how Canadian airlines transport NHL and NBA teams between American cities when they’re playing road games? It turns out the rules governing international sports charters are surprisingly complicated, and aviation expert Brett Snyder breaks down how Air Canada makes it work. Cranky Flier
Chicago Hotel Strikes Expand as Workers Demand Better Pay and Benefits
Travelers heading to Chicago may want to double-check their hotel reservations. Workers at the Hilton Chicago and Hyatt Regency Chicago have joined an expanding strike over wages, benefits and working conditions, with labor disputes now affecting several major downtown properties. Chicago Defender
American Airlines Flight Returns to Miami Following Passenger Dispute
An American Airlines flight from Miami to Georgetown, Guyana, was forced to turn around Thursday evening after a verbal confrontation between a passenger and a flight attendant. Flight 339 landed safely back at Miami International Airport, and the FAA is investigating the incident. Miami Herald
=== Thursday, October 22 ===
Powerful nor’easter threatens East Coast with flooding and strong winds
A powerful nor’easter is churning off the East Coast, bringing the threat of strong winds, rough surf and coastal flooding. The heaviest rain is expected to stay mostly offshore, but coastal areas from the Jersey Shore to North Carolina’s Outer Banks could see 1–2 feet of flooding. NBC News
FAA approves Boeing 737 MAX 10 after years of delays
Boeing has finally received FAA approval for its largest 737 MAX aircraft after years of certification delays and safety reviews. The long-awaited approval is a major milestone for Boeing and airlines that have been waiting to add the MAX 10 to their fleets. Dallas Morning News
Taiwan cancels more than 100 flights as Super Typhoon Champi approaches
More than 100 flights have been canceled in Taiwan as Super Typhoon Champi threatens parts of Asia. The massive storm, packing winds approaching 185 mph, has weakened slightly but remains an extremely dangerous Category 5-equivalent system threatening the Philippines, Taiwan and China. The Independent
Ryanair boss warns of historic airfare increases
If you’re planning a trip to Europe next year, brace yourself for potentially higher airfares. Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary is warning that airlines could impose their biggest fare increases ever as rising oil prices, driven by the conflict in the Middle East, push operating costs higher. The Telegraph
Air Canada now charges $30 per passenger to book flights by phone
Here’s another airline fee travelers should know about. As of October 15, Air Canada charges $30 per passenger to book a flight over the phone, joining United, WestJet and several low-cost airlines that already charge for telephone reservations. Delta and Southwest still offer phone bookings without this additional fee. The Globe and Mail
Air Canada cuts five more U.S. routes for 2027
Air Canada is eliminating five additional routes to U.S. destinations next year, including its nonstop service to South Carolina. Although Canadian air travel to the U.S. increased in September compared with last year, it remains nearly 19% below 2024 levels, highlighting the challenges facing cross-border travel. Global News
United Airlines lowers profit outlook as fuel prices climb
United Airlines is feeling the pinch from rising fuel costs, lowering its earnings outlook for the rest of 2026. But here’s the interesting part: Travelers aren’t staying home. United says passenger numbers are up more than 2% compared with last year, despite higher airfares. CNBC
Four United flight attendants injured by turbulence approaching LAX
Four United Airlines flight attendants were injured Wednesday night when Flight 1157 from Hawaii encountered severe turbulence while approaching Los Angeles International Airport. The plane landed safely, but it’s another reminder of why I always recommend keeping your seat belt fastened whenever you’re seated, even when the seat belt sign is off. ABC7 Los Angeles
United expands meal preorders to hundreds of shorter flights
United Airlines is making it easier for Economy passengers to get the meals they want by expanding its fresh food preorder program to flights over 900 miles, down from 1,190 miles. The change adds 420 daily flights and gives up to 65,000 more passengers the option to preorder food through United’s app or website between five days and 24 hours before departure. United Airlines
U.S. tourism slump deepens as international visitor numbers fall
The U.S. continues to struggle to attract overseas visitors. New figures from the National Travel and Tourism Office show arrivals from the country’s 20 largest overseas markets totaled 17.75 million during the first nine months of 2026, a 4.7% decline from the same period last year. TravelMole
United Airlines is opening its largest airport lounge ever in Houston
United is going big at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport with a new lounge in Terminal B that will accommodate 800 guests. The massive space is part of the airline’s airport overhaul and comes as lounges face growing demand from travelers with premium credit cards, elite status and lounge memberships. CNBC
Lufthansa announces new nonstop flights between Phoenix and Munich
Good news for travelers in Arizona! Lufthansa is launching year-round nonstop service between Phoenix and Munich beginning August 3, 2027. Flights will operate three times a week on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays aboard an Airbus A350-900, giving travelers a new way to reach Germany and connect throughout Europe. AirlineGeeks
Tourist convicted after stealing flamingo from Las Vegas hotel
A Canadian tourist has been found guilty of animal cruelty after taking a flamingo named Peachy from its enclosure at a Las Vegas hotel. Prosecutors called it a malicious prank, while the man’s attorney argued it was drunken foolishness. Either way, it’s a reminder that bad behavior on vacation can have serious consequences. CNN
American Airlines says it will stop involuntarily bumping passengers
American Airlines is promising to end involuntary passenger bumping after accounting for a staggering 60% of all travelers bumped from U.S. flights last year. It’s a welcome change for passengers who have experienced the frustration of showing up for a confirmed flight only to be told there’s no seat available. The Wall Street Journal
=== Tuesday, October 20 ===
TSA Scales Back New PreCheck Benefit Just Weeks After Launch
Well, that didn’t last long. The TSA is scaling back its new Gateside by TSA PreCheck program, which launched in September at 13 airports and allowed PreCheck members to go through security even when they weren’t flying. The program required members to apply for a pass one to three days in advance, but some participating airports say the benefit has already been reduced. CNN
Southwest Airlines Is Making Major Changes to Its Frequent Flyer Program
Southwest is giving its Rapid Rewards loyalty program a major makeover, replacing A-List and A-List Preferred with three new elite tiers: Silver, Gold and Platinum, beginning January 1. The airline is also introducing new benefits and changing the requirements for earning its popular Companion Pass, so loyal Southwest flyers will want to pay attention. CNBC
LAX Restaurant Named Best Airport Grab-and-Go Spot in America
Here’s some good news for travelers flying through LAX. Urth Caffé has been named the best airport grab-and-go restaurant in the country in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. The California-based café is known for its organic coffee, teas and food, making it a popular stop for travelers looking for something beyond typical airport fast food. New York Post
Mexico’s Pacific Coast Braces for Another Major Storm After Weeks of Flooding
Travelers heading to Mexico’s Pacific coast should keep a close eye on the weather as another powerful storm threatens communities still recovering from previous hurricanes. Areas around Puerto Vallarta and Bahía de Banderas have experienced weeks of heavy rain, flooding and mudslides, leaving residents exhausted and concerned about what’s coming next. Los Angeles Times
Singapore Airlines Flight Returns to SFO After Unruly Passenger Incident
A Singapore Airlines flight from San Francisco to Singapore was forced to return to SFO Wednesday after an unruly passenger reportedly injured himself onboard. Flight SQ31 landed back in San Francisco around 8:40 p.m., nearly nine hours after its scheduled departure, and the passenger was turned over to local authorities. San Francisco Chronicle
New York City’s Iconic Plaza Hotel Is Closing for Four Years
One of New York City’s most famous hotels is preparing for a massive four-year shutdown, and it turns out some residents knew about the plans long before the public announcement. The Plaza, famous for its luxury accommodations and appearances in movies like Home Alone 2, is facing an extended closure that could also complicate condo sales inside the landmark building. New York Post
France Protests Turn Violent With 1,800 Arrests and Buildings Set on Fire
Travelers visiting France should be aware of widespread demonstrations that have turned violent in several cities. Police arrested at least 1,800 people following clashes, looting and fires during protests over the rising cost of living and conditions in schools. In Limoges, a historic 19th-century city hall was badly damaged by a fire authorities say was deliberately set. Associated Press
15 Strangers Show Up at SFO for a Mystery Trip and One Wins a Flight to Fiji
Now this is a fun travel promotion! Fifteen strangers arrived at San Francisco International Airport with their passports and packed bags, knowing only that one lucky person would be boarding a flight to a mystery destination. The surprise turned out to be Fiji, giving one traveler an unforgettable adventure while the others went home with quite a story. San Francisco Chronicle
Salem Is Seeing Huge Halloween Crowds and Visitors Should Plan Accordingly
If you’re thinking about visiting Salem, Massachusetts, for Halloween, be prepared for some serious crowds. The city welcomed approximately 136,500 visitors on a single Saturday, a 12% increase over the same weekend last year. With Halloween tourism continuing to grow, taking the train instead of driving might be your best bet for avoiding traffic and parking headaches. CBS Boston
Trespasser Detained After Entering Denver International Airport Airfield
Denver International Airport confirmed that police detained a person who allegedly entered a restricted area on the north side of the airfield Saturday afternoon. The incident happened around 2:30 p.m., and the individual was subsequently transported to the University of Colorado Hospital. Authorities have not released additional details about how the person accessed the area. CBS Colorado
American Airlines Plans to Make LAX Its Pacific Gateway Again
This is big news for American Airlines flyers, especially those of us based in Los Angeles. American’s Chief Commercial Officer Nat Pieper confirmed that the airline plans to restore LAX as its Pacific gateway, reversing a pandemic-era strategy that reduced its international focus there. The news came during an interview with aviation blogger Brett Snyder, and it could eventually mean more international flight options for travelers departing Los Angeles. Cranky Flier
Unusually Strong El Niño Brings Rare and Exotic Marine Life to California
California’s coastline is seeing some extraordinary visitors thanks to unusually warm Pacific Ocean waters associated with a strong El Niño. Scientists have spotted species rarely or never seen in the state, including the longfin bigeye fish, venomous yellow-bellied sea snakes, whale sharks and hammerhead sharks. Even more remarkable, sea turtles have reportedly nested on California beaches for the first time. Reuters
TDS Much.
Hi Johnnie, I am a fan and live not far from you near Santa Monica. I am finally realizing a dream of mine in going to Ischia and can’t wait. I am going for 10 days in early May. I know your family is from there but not sure if you still have any there or any contacts? I am hoping to rent a room from a family rather than stay at a hotel? It is just for myself. I prefer to stay in Foria as I believe it is best for taking buses to see the island, plus if I want to take excursions and be near the ferry. Is there any chance you know of a family who may want to rent a room to me? Or is there a website that offers this type of accommodation? Is this common in Ischia? Since I will be alone, it just would be nice to have this type of experience. I do currently have reservations to stay at a hotel in Forio upon arriving. Some other info, can you give me a name of a driver who could show me the island and take me places as needed? I especially want to visit Saint Angelo. Thank you in advance and any info you can give me. I did keep a copy of the information you posted on your last trip and will take all your suggestions. Sincerely, Carol
With regards to the story of the couple who stayed in a hotel in France and woke up with bed bug bites, it was clickbait. I couldn’t read the story without subscribing to the news service. As a frequent reader, that’s just not something I’m willing to do. Just thought you’d like to know. Thanks!
Travel enthusiast always on the lookout for smart tips, hidden gems, and budget-friendly travel hacks. I follow JohnnyJet.com to stay inspired by real travel experiences, helpful advice, and the latest travel news. Whether it’s finding flight deals, exploring new destinations, or planning efficient trips, I love learning from the travel community. Passionate about exploring the world one journey at a time and sharing insights along the way. Let’s keep discovering and making travel more rewarding together!
Great roundup of the latest travel updates! From the new TSA screening technologies to the trending destinations for 2024, this article covers everything a traveler needs to know. I especially appreciated the tips on avoiding flight delays and the insights into airline policy changes. JohnnyJet always delivers practical and timely advice—perfect for planning stress-free trips. Thanks for keeping us informed!
Arthur Frommer, RIP, was a particular inspiration to me, and I am honored that, as one of his authors, our names will be linked together for posterity.
TSA numbers of no value. Who cares?
Why would anyone care about yesterday’s TSA numbers? This is silly.
A lot of people do. Shows how the economy is doing especially for the airlines.
What’s your recommended VPN