12 Things in Travel You Need to Know Today

12 Things in Travel You Need to Know Today
(This is a recurring post, updated daily with new information):

=== Sunday, July 5 === 

Delta Plane Hit by Firework During July 4 Landing, Airline Says
A Delta Air Lines aircraft was struck by a firework while landing at Chicago Midway International Airport on July 4, according to air traffic control audio shared online. A spokesperson for Delta told Newsweek the aircraft landed safely and there was no emergency landing. The airline said the plane was taken out of normal operations for inspection after arriving at the gate. Initial reports did not indicate any injuries among passengers or crew. Newsweek

Thunderstorms and 5 Inches of Rain in Weather Forecast for NYC
Following days of record heat followed by violent thunderstorms on Friday, the northern part of the state is about to get soaked. According to the National Weather Service, Hudson and Bergen Counties could get as much as five inches of rain from Sunday night into Tuesday morning. Patch

FAA Takes First Step to Scrap the Ban on Supersonic Flights Over the U.S.
The Federal Aviation Administration announced a proposed rule change that would lift the ban on supersonic flights over the continental U.S. by non-military planes, a policy in place since 1973. Supersonic aircraft produce sonic booms, shock waves that can cause property damage, as seen in the 1960s when military planes shattered windows and broke dishes. Gizmodo

Beachgoer Killed by Lightning Strike While Swimming in Florida
One person was killed and three others were injured when beachgoers were struck by lightning while swimming in the Gulf at Fort Myers Beach around 3 p.m. Witnesses described the strike as sounding like “an atomic bomb went off.” WINK News

Tui Cruise Cancelled After Air Conditioning Cuts Out During Heatwave
Passengers who had flown to Budapest to join a Tui river cruise were forced to swap cabins for hotel rooms after the ship’s air conditioning failed during extreme heat. More than 100 guests ultimately returned home after the cruise was cancelled. The Independent

Thai-Laotian Couple Suspected in Flight Attendant Heroin Case
Police detained a Thai man and his Laotian wife in connection with a drug smuggling case involving a Thai flight attendant arrested in Australia. Authorities say she was allegedly hired via Facebook to transport tote bags containing about one kilogram of heroin concealed inside. The Thaiger

125 Sickened on Ruby Princess Cruise Sailing Round-Trip from San Francisco
More than 120 passengers and crew aboard the Ruby Princess became sick during an Alaska and Canada voyage, according to the CDC. Officials identified the cause as norovirus, affecting 102 passengers and 23 crew members. MSN

Southwest Drops Seven St. Louis Routes
Southwest Airlines is cutting seven nonstop routes from St. Louis as part of a broader network overhaul. The changes are part of a shift toward higher-demand, more profitable routes. Daily Mail

Hottest June on Record in France as Heatwave Deaths Rise
France recorded its hottest June since 1947, with temperatures exceeding 40C in many regions. Meteorologists said more than a third of the country experienced extreme heat, with rising health impacts reported. Al Jazeera

Delta Air Lines Sued After Severe Turbulence Injures 25
Delta Air Lines is facing a lawsuit after severe turbulence on a flight between Salt Lake City and Amsterdam injured more than two dozen passengers and crew. The aircraft diverted to Minnesota following the incident. The Independent

StubHub Sued by World Cup Fans Over Ticket Cancellations
Fans have filed a lawsuit against StubHub alleging misleading ticket sales practices left them without tickets to World Cup matches. The suit claims customers suffered financial losses and missed events. The Independent

American Pilot Shot Dead and Plane Set on Fire by Papua Rebels
An American pilot was killed and his plane burned in Indonesia’s Papua region, according to military officials. A separatist group claimed responsibility, describing the attack as a message to the U.S. and Indonesian governments. MSN

Mother and Daughter Found Alive After Being Reported Lost on Southern California Trail
A mother and daughter reported missing in the San Bernardino Mountains were found alive and well after failing to return from a hike on the Vivian Creek Trail. Officials confirmed the pair had been located safely. NY Post

Soccer Fan Who Vanished on World Cup Trip Found in Spain Pub 10 Days Later
An England soccer fan reported missing during travel to the U.S. for the World Cup was found safe in Spain, reportedly unaware of the search. The fan had last contacted family in Barcelona. NY Post

Multiple Amtrak Trains Canceled on Northeast Lines Due to Heat
Amtrak canceled more than a dozen trains across the Northeast due to extreme heat impacting service from Virginia to Maine. The disruptions began Thursday and continued into Friday. Patch

Cruise Passenger Falls Into Sea After Ship Breaks Loose in High Winds
A cruise passenger fell into the water after a ship broke free from its moorings during strong winds in Corfu, Greece. The captain was arrested following the incident as authorities investigated. USA Today

=== Thursday, July 2 === 

Bus In Deadly Crash On Long Island Expressway Was Carrying Royal Jordanian Flight Crew
A bus that overturned in a multi-car pileup on the Long Island Expressway, killing two and injuring nearly 20 people, was carrying a Royal Jordanian Airlines flight crew when it crashed. The coach bus transporting 15 crew members from Royal Jordanian Airlines flight RJ826 collided with two vehicles near Exit 16 for Greenpoint Avenue before flipping into oncoming traffic and striking two additional cars, according to police and the airline. NY Post

Why Japanese Airlines’ $400 Fuel Surcharges Are Hitting Now — And When They Will End
ANA and Japan Airlines have increased fuel surcharges even as jet fuel prices decline, because their pricing models rely on earlier fuel cost averages rather than real-time market rates. Currency fluctuations, including a weaker yen, also influence how these charges are applied to international travelers.  CNBC

T-Mobile International Calling May Get More Expensive For Travelers
T-Mobile customers traveling abroad may soon face higher international calling costs, with reports suggesting potential increases to existing per-minute roaming charges and travel pass options. The carrier currently charges $0.25 per minute for basic international calling on some plans, with optional daily, 10-day, and 30-day International Pass bundles available for frequent travelers.  TmoNews

Ice Cream, Cool Pools, Air Conditioning: Europe’s Hotels Adapt In The Heatwave
Hotels across Europe are adjusting operations in response to extreme heat, offering amenities such as chilled water, cold towels, and modified guest services to help travelers cope with rising temperatures. Some properties are also changing housekeeping routines and scheduling to minimize heat exposure during peak summer conditions. Travel Weekly

DOT Proposes Rollback Of Obama-Era Airfare Marketing Rule
The U.S. Department of Transportation is proposing to repeal rules requiring airlines to prominently display total airfare prices, including taxes and fees, in advertising. The change would also remove requirements that the full fare be shown more prominently than fare components, reversing a 2011 transparency regulation. Skift

Airlines Improve Bag-Handling Efficiency Though Costs Still In The Billions
Airlines reduced mishandled baggage rates by 23% in 2025 thanks to improved technology and operational changes, according to industry data, but lost and delayed luggage still cost the global airline industry billions annually. Despite progress, baggage disruption remains a significant operational and financial challenge.  Travel Weekly

US Airline Stocks Are Soaring As Cheaper Jet Fuel And Insatiable Demand Set Up A Summer Boom
U.S. airline stocks are climbing as falling jet fuel prices and sustained travel demand boost investor confidence, with major carriers approaching record valuations. Analysts point to strong seasonal demand and lower fuel costs as key drivers of the sector’s recent gains.  MarketWatch

Why Some Europeans Resist Air Conditioning Amid Deadly Heat Waves
Europe is experiencing severe heatwaves linked to rising mortality rates, while limited air conditioning adoption in some countries is influenced by cultural norms, infrastructure constraints, and energy considerations. Health officials warn that aging populations are particularly vulnerable to extreme heat events. CBS News

American Airlines Brings Grab-And-Go Lounge To New York’s JFK
American Airlines is introducing a grab-and-go lounge concept at JFK Airport as part of a broader effort to expand premium passenger amenities while reducing congestion in traditional lounge spaces. The airline continues to invest in new service formats across major hubs. CNBC

American Airlines Launches New Chicago–Tokyo Service
American Airlines will begin daily flights between Chicago O’Hare and Tokyo Narita in March 2027 as part of its joint venture with Japan Airlines, expanding its long-haul international network. The route will become the airline’s 11th long-haul connection from Chicago.  Travel Weekly

TSA Found A Smoke Grenade Hidden In A Jar Of Peanut Butter
TSA officers discovered two live smoke grenades in a passenger’s checked baggage at Indianapolis International Airport, including one concealed inside a jar of peanut butter during a routine screening. The explosives were flagged during X-ray inspection and removed by hazardous materials specialists.  USA Today

Airports, Airlines Warn New EU Border Checks Snarling Summer Travel
Airlines and airports across Europe are warning that new EU border control systems are causing significant delays and operational strain, urging urgent action to prevent worsening disruption during peak summer travel. Industry groups say congestion is already affecting major hubs. Courthouse News Service

Qantas Temporarily Closes LAX First Class Lounge
Qantas has temporarily closed its first class lounge at Los Angeles International Airport due to flooding, redirecting premium passengers to its nearby business class lounge while repairs are completed. The closure is expected to last up to two months.  Executive Traveller

Las Vegas Flyer Hits $3.3M Jackpot At Airport Slot Machine
A traveler at Harry Reid International Airport won a $3.3 million jackpot on a slot machine, turning a routine departure into a life-changing win. Airport officials confirmed the jackpot occurred over the weekend on a gaming machine inside the terminal. News 3 LV

GOP House Member Calls Out American Airlines For Delays, Missed Votes
Rep. Max Miller criticized American Airlines after he and two other members of Congress missed House votes due to flight delays, calling the airline “incompetent” and citing ongoing operational disruptions. The incident highlights continued frustration with airline reliability among frequent travelers.  The Hill

=== Tuesday, June 30 === 

Dangerous, Record-Smashing Heat Wave to Scorch Millions
A prolonged and potentially dangerous heat wave is expected to intensify across much of the central and eastern United States this week, with the National Weather Service warning of widespread extreme temperatures. Forecasters say some locations could challenge or break all-time heat records before the week is over, according to USA Today.

Ticket Prices Drop for USMNT vs. Bosnia World Cup Match
Ticket prices for the United States’ Round of 32 World Cup match against Bosnia and Herzegovina at Levi’s Stadium have fallen sharply despite heightened excitement surrounding the tournament. The knockout match is scheduled for July 1 in San Francisco, with lower prices creating new opportunities for fans to attend, according to the New York Post.

France to Illuminate Statue of Liberty for America’s 250th Birthday
France will honor the United States’ 250th anniversary with a large-scale light show at the Statue of Liberty. The prerecorded artistic display will air on ABC as part of its Independence Day coverage, celebrating the enduring friendship between the two nations, according to MSN.

JetBlue Flight Collides With Drone Near New York
A JetBlue flight arriving at John F. Kennedy International Airport struck a drone while on approach Monday morning. The aircraft landed safely, passengers deplaned without incident, and the plane was removed from service for inspection as authorities investigate the encounter, according to NBC New York.

Thai Airways Investigates After Cabin Crew Member Arrested
Thai Airways is cooperating with Australian authorities after a flight attendant was charged with attempting to import more than a kilogram of heroin into Australia. Border officials allegedly discovered the drugs concealed within the lining of multiple tote bags after the crew member arrived in Melbourne from Bangkok, according to The Independent.

Son Pilots Retirement Flight for Father Diagnosed With ALS
United Airlines Captain Rob Lustman received an emotional sendoff when his son, Daniel, fulfilled a lifelong dream by piloting his father’s retirement flight. Family, friends, and colleagues celebrated the milestone after Captain Lustman, who was diagnosed with ALS in 2024, concluded his flying career, according to People.

Delta Expands LAX Service With Newark Route
Delta Air Lines will launch twice-daily service between Los Angeles and Newark next April, increasing competition on a route long dominated by United Airlines. The flights will operate with Airbus A321neo aircraft featuring first class, extra-legroom seating, and standard economy cabins, according to Travel Weekly.

Thousands of Vespas Celebrate 80th Anniversary in Rome
More than 10,000 Vespa scooters filled the streets of Rome over the weekend to celebrate the iconic brand’s 80th anniversary. Enthusiasts from around the world rode past landmarks including the Colosseum and Roman Forum in a tribute to one of Italy’s most recognizable symbols, according to AP News.

British Airways Crew Can Now Rest in Empty Premium Seats
British Airways has updated its crew rest policy to allow flight attendants to sleep in unoccupied first and business class seats when designated crew-rest areas are unavailable. The airline is also reserving select seats on certain Boeing 777 and 787 aircraft to improve crew rest on long-haul flights, according to View from the Wing.

Cruise Ship Evacuated in France After Galley Fire
Passengers and crew aboard the MS Botticelli were evacuated after a fire broke out in the ship’s galley while it was docked in Honfleur, France. Firefighters extinguished the blaze, and no major injuries were reported among the 132 passengers and 31 crew members, according to the Daily Mail.

Missing Texas Giraffe Gracie Found Safe
Gracie the giraffe has been found after spending nearly two weeks roaming free in the Texas Hill Country. Located during an aerial search about four miles from her ranch, the giraffe appeared healthy, and her owner is coordinating with veterinarians to return her safely home, according to AP.

WHO Says Europe Heat Wave Linked to More Than 1,300 Deaths
The World Health Organization says an ongoing European heat wave has contributed to more than 1,300 excess deaths since June 21, including at least 1,000 additional deaths in France over a three-day period. Officials warn that extreme heat remains a growing public health threat as infrastructure across Europe struggles to cope with record temperatures, according to The Independent.

=== Sunday, June 28 === 

Record Heatwave Grips Europe as France Warns Death Toll Set to Rise
A record-breaking heatwave continues to scorch parts of Europe, with temperatures expected to reach 40°C (104°F) in some areas even as storms move into others. French officials say the extreme weather has contributed to approximately 1,000 excess deaths. Reuters

Airfare Remains Expensive Even Though Jet Fuel Is Cheaper
Despite jet fuel prices dropping more than 40% since February, airfare remains elevated. Summer fares are running 15% higher than last year, driven by higher operating costs tied to the U.S.-Iran conflict, while the average domestic ticket remains among the highest seen since 2022. The Independent

FAA Investigating Low-Flying Cargo Plane Near Miss at Texas Airport
The FAA is investigating after a Boeing 777 cargo aircraft on a test flight flew so low over a private Texas airport that one wing came within feet of striking the ground. The aircraft had recently been converted from a passenger jet into a freighter. ABC News

12-Year-Old Hospitalized After Bison Attack in Yellowstone
A 12-year-old child was hospitalized after being attacked by a bison in Yellowstone National Park. Park officials reminded visitors to keep a safe distance from wildlife, noting that bison injure more people in Yellowstone than any other animal. People

Brits Urged to Avoid Non-Essential Travel as Heatwave Persists
Rail passengers across much of England are being advised to avoid non-essential travel as extreme heat threatens widespread service disruptions. Network Rail says travelers should use trains only if absolutely necessary in areas under the Met Office’s highest heat alerts. The Independent

Central Park’s Horse-Drawn Carriages Face an Uncertain Future
A fatal accident involving a runaway carriage horse has reignited debate over New York City’s iconic horse-drawn carriage rides. The incident could bring an end to a tradition that has been part of Central Park for more than 160 years. The Telegraph

Frictionless Security and Supersonic Flights: What Travel Could Look Like in 20 Years
The next two decades could bring major changes to travel, including AI-powered trip planning, streamlined airport security, supersonic commercial flights, and even space hotels, according to experts looking ahead to 2046. The Wall Street Journal

What’s Next for Spirit Airlines’ Former Headquarters?
Spirit Airlines has extended the deadline for bids on its former Broward County headquarters and campus following the company’s abrupt shutdown in May. Interested buyers now have until July 10 to submit offers. Miami Herald

Aqueduct Racetrack Runs Its Final Race After 132 Years
New York City’s historic Aqueduct Racetrack is set to close after more than a century of thoroughbred racing. The final race marks the end of one of America’s oldest urban racetracks and a landmark in New York horse racing history. Bloomberg

Stranger on Flight Helped Solve Girl’s Medical Mystery
A Florida woman living with Type 1 diabetes says her diagnosis began with a chance encounter on an airplane when she was 11 years old. A fellow passenger recognized her symptoms and urged her family to seek medical attention, ultimately leading to a lifesaving diagnosis. Newsweek

Why Airlines Still Operate So Many Short Flights
While short-haul flying has declined over the past decade, airlines continue to operate many brief routes because they connect passengers to larger hub airports, support regional economies, and help maximize airline networks despite growing competition from driving and rail. NPR

Blind Traveler’s Airport Ordeal Highlights Accessibility Challenges
A blind passenger left stranded after a flight cancellation is drawing attention to the challenges visually impaired travelers face during disruptions. Advocates say better staff training and improved access to real-time information are needed to make air travel more accessible.
USA Today

=== Friday, June 26 === 

Thousands Feared Dead After Two Major Earthquakes Strike Venezuela
Thousands are feared dead after two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela, causing widespread destruction in and around Caracas. Officials have confirmed at least 32 deaths and more than 700 injuries, with rescue crews continuing to search through collapsed buildings. Reuters

National Park Staff Now Cannot Reveal Deaths Of Visitors
The Trump administration has barred National Park Service employees from confirming visitor deaths or serious injuries to the public or media under a policy outlined in a previously undisclosed Interior Department memo. Critics say the move reduces transparency about safety incidents in national parks. Daily Beast

Passengers Restrain Pilot During Apparent Medical Emergency On Air Canada Flight
Passengers helped restrain an Air Canada pilot after he suffered what witnesses described as a seizure during a flight from Newark to Halifax. The airline said the captain experienced a medical emergency, and the flight landed safely. ABC News

Europeans Told To Protect Themselves As Deadly Heatwave Takes Its Toll
A deadly heatwave continues to grip much of Western Europe, with Paris reaching a record 105.6°F (40.9°C) and dozens of heat-related deaths reported. The extreme temperatures have disrupted power supplies, closed schools and forced cultural landmarks to shut their doors. Reuters

Brits Are Booking Hotels Just To Escape The Heat
As temperatures soar above 30°C (86°F), many Britons are checking into air-conditioned hotels simply to get a good night’s sleep. Some say the cost is worth it after sleepless nights during the ongoing heatwave. Daily Mail

Cruise Line Bans More Than A Dozen Travelers After Port Fight
Carnival Cruise Line has banned more than a dozen passengers after a fight between two families broke out in the Customs and Border Protection area at the Port of Miami following a cruise. Police responded to the incident, which remains under investigation. USA Today

TSA Expands PreCheck Touchless ID With Google Wallet
The TSA has partnered with Google Wallet to make it easier for eligible travelers to use TSA PreCheck Touchless ID. Travelers can opt in after adding their boarding pass to Google Wallet and using a supported digital ID. TravelPulse

Two Heat Domes Expected To Merge Into Major U.S. Heatwave
Forecasters say two heat domes will combine next week, bringing dangerous heat to much of the Great Plains, Great Lakes, Ohio Valley and Southeast. Millions could experience prolonged periods of extreme temperatures. KTLA

WestJet Cuts Fuel Surcharge As Fuel Prices Fall
WestJet has reduced fuel surcharges on companion vouchers, joining Porter Airlines in lowering fees as fuel prices decline. Other Canadian airlines are taking a wait-and-see approach before making similar changes. Travel Industry Today

Rome Airports Warn EU Entry System Could Cause Summer Travel Chaos
Rome’s airport operator says it may need to suspend implementation of the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) during the busy summer season to avoid long delays for travelers. The biometric border program requires first-time non-EU visitors to provide fingerprints and facial scans. The Guardian

Bareknuckle Boxer Dies After Being Restrained On Jet2 Flight
A passenger identified as a bareknuckle boxer died after being restrained by fellow travelers during a Jet2 flight from Cyprus to Manchester. Witnesses said he became increasingly disruptive after allegedly drinking heavily before boarding. MSN

Alaska Airlines Flight Attendants’ Religious Freedom Lawsuit Can Proceed
A federal appeals court ruled that two former Alaska Airlines flight attendants can take their religious discrimination lawsuit to trial after they were fired over posts criticizing the airline’s support of LGBTQ rights legislation. San Francisco Chronicle

Priority Pass Members Face More Cuts To Benefits
Priority Pass members are seeing more reductions in benefits as some lounges begin charging for showers and others leave the network altogether. The changes continue a gradual decline in the program’s overall value for travelers. Upgraded Points

Air India Pilot Removed After Briefly Entering Pakistani Airspace
An Air India pilot has been removed from duty after his aircraft briefly entered Pakistani airspace while holding for a runway inspection near Amritsar. India’s aviation regulator is investigating the incident.The Independent

An Italian Shares 10 Summer Destinations Locals Actually Visit
While international visitors flock to the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre, many Italians spend their summers in lesser-known destinations along the country’s nearly 5,000 miles of coastline. Here’s where locals escape the crowds. Travel + Leisure