David Shepardson

The U.S. Senate confirmed Serco senior vice president David Cummins as head of the Transportation Security Administration, after a 16-month vacancy following Donald Trump's dismissal of David Pekoske. The appointment comes as the administration seeks to cut roughly $1.5 billion from the TSA budget and require smaller airports to use private security screeners, potentially eliminating more than 4,500 positions. Several airports are preparing to switch to private contractors, while around 20 already use them. The plan faces opposition from Airlines for America and follows severe TSA disruptions during a six-week government shutdown, when unpaid workers contributed to security waits of up to four hours.

The FCC voted 2-1 to rescind the rule limiting local television station owners to reaching 39% of U.S. households, allowing merger applications above that threshold to be reviewed individually. Chair Brendan Carr said the change would help struggling local broadcasters attract investment and compete with national networks, while Democratic commissioner Anna Gomez argued that only Congress could remove the cap and warned it would concentrate control of public airwaves. The decision follows the FCC's approval of Nexstar's $3.54 billion acquisition of Tegna, which could give Nexstar access to 80% of U.S. television households, and has drawn criticism from Senators Ted Cruz and Elizabeth Warren over legal authority, media concentration, and political influence over content.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has upgraded its investigation into about 135,000 Ford Fiesta, Focus and EcoSport vehicles with 1.0L engines from model years 2014–2021. The agency cites 355 reports in which a timing belt degraded, debris clogged the oil-pump pickup screen, and drivers experienced reduced or complete loss of power or engine seizure. Failures occurred at an average of roughly 70,000 miles, with 98% happening before Ford’s recommended 150,000-mile belt replacement interval. The engineering analysis is a required step before NHTSA can compel a recall. Ford has discontinued the models, shortened the timing-belt maintenance interval for certain global vehicles, and offered reimbursement for some related repairs, but has not immediately commented on the upgraded US investigation.

The Federal Aviation Administration is requesting an additional $10 billion from Congress to modernize the aging U.S. air traffic control system as air travel demand is expected to double in the coming decades. Administrator Bryan Bedford says the agency is accelerating deployment of $12.5 billion in previously approved upgrades, replacing outdated radar and telecom systems and preparing AI‑based flight scheduling to reduce delays. Plans include shifting to digital communications by 2027, expanding satellite connectivity, overhauling airspace rules and infrastructure, and potentially requiring ADS‑B tracking technology. Major aviation groups support the increased funding request.

US auto safety regulators rejected Tesla’s attempt to avoid recalling nearly 20,000 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles with headlights that may exceed legal brightness limits, citing increased glare risk. The decision follows additional safety concerns, including a Cybertruck recall over wheel hub defects and a major 2023 recall affecting more than 2 million vehicles to address Autopilot monitoring flaws. Tesla has also recently lost its position as the top global electric vehicle seller to China’s BYD.

California approved a new $270 million rebate program offering $3,500 for new electric vehicles and $1,750 for used ones to revive slowing sales after federal EV tax credits were eliminated. The incentives apply to lower-priced vehicles and will launch later in the summer, with participating automakers to be announced. EV adoption in the U.S. lags behind global trends, though California remains a strong market. State leaders framed the program as a counter to federal rollbacks under Donald Trump, who has taken steps to weaken clean-car rules. California is also challenging new federal actions in court while its previous rebate initiative supported more than half a million EV purchases.

US regulators warn owners of 463,000 Kia Telluride SUVs from model years 2020 to 2024 to park outdoors due to a fire risk linked to overheating front power seat motors. Kia has reported multiple fires and melted motors, and improper repairs from a previous recall may worsen the hazard. Dealers will install an electronic fuse to prevent continuous motor operation, with owner notifications beginning in mid‑August.

A House vote is scheduled on the Sunshine Protection Act, which would make daylight saving time permanent and allow states to opt out. Supporters argue the change would reduce sleep disruption and boost economic activity, while opponents warn of excessively late winter sunrises and safety concerns for children. The measure previously stalled despite Senate approval, and past attempts at permanent daylight saving proved unpopular. Lawmakers from both parties express differing views as the debate resurfaces.

U.S. safety regulators warned owners of 2020–2024 Kia Telluride SUVs to park outdoors due to a defect in front power seat motors that can overheat and cause fires. The recall covers 463,000 vehicles, following reports of seat fires and melted motors linked to damaged or dislodged seat switches. Dealers will install an electronic fuse to prevent continuous motor operation, with owner notifications beginning on August 13.

U.S. regulators warned owners of 463,000 Kia Telluride SUVs from model years 2020 to 2024 to park outdoors due to an overheating front power‑seat motor that can cause fires. The vehicles were previously recalled for the same defect, and improper earlier repairs may contribute to risks. Kia has reported multiple seat fires and melted motors. Dealers will install an electronic fuse assembly to prevent continuous motor operation, with owner notifications beginning in mid‑August.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration warned autonomous vehicle developers after documenting repeated cases of self-driving cars interfering with emergency responders, failing to recognize hazards and entering active emergency scenes. The agency plans meetings with developers and urged urgent fixes. Waymo is under federal investigation following incidents including obstructing emergency vehicles, illegally passing stopped school buses in Texas, and striking a child in California.

U.S. agencies have seized more than 600 unauthorized drones near World Cup stadiums and fan zones since June 11 under federal airspace restrictions. The FBI, TSA and FAA reported widespread violations across all 11 host cities, with Miami and Dallas accounting for significant numbers. Operators entering restricted zones face severe penalties including fines, charges and drone confiscation, and FBI teams are deployed to detect and disable unauthorized devices. A Mexican national was charged for flying a drone near Dallas Stadium, and recent federal actions, including an executive order and new counter‑drone systems at the southern border, reflect heightened concerns amid past incidents at major sporting events.

The FAA plans to modernize and streamline aircraft certification by aligning regulations with EASA standards, reducing exemptions and cutting approval time and costs while maintaining safety. The changes are expected to benefit major manufacturers, coinciding with progress toward certifying Boeing’s 737 MAX 7 and MAX 10 variants, with both U.S. and European regulators emphasizing closer collaboration.

Stellantis issued a global recall for more than 1.3 million Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator vehicles from model years 2021–2025 due to a potential fire risk linked to the electric‑hydraulic power steering pump wiring. Over one million affected vehicles are in the US, with additional units in Canada, Mexico, and other markets. The company will inspect and repair or replace components as needed, with fixes expected by July. One injury has been reported, with no crashes or fatalities.

The Federal Communications Commission has launched a full review of the $3 billion E‑Rate program that subsidizes internet access for schools and libraries, citing rising concerns about children’s screen time and questioning whether the program aligns with its original mission. The agency is seeking public input on legal and policy issues related to child safety and internet use as it considers potential reforms or termination of the program. The move follows a recent decision to end subsidies for school bus Wi‑Fi and comes amid controversy surrounding Chairman Brendan Carr, who has drawn criticism for threatening broadcasters’ licenses after Donald Trump denounced media coverage of the conflict with Iran.

The U.S. travel industry warns that removing immigration officials from Newark Liberty International Airport could cost the U.S. economy $8 billion annually and disrupt millions of travelers ahead of the FIFA World Cup. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin threatened to halt processing of international passengers and cargo due to insufficient local law enforcement cooperation at a New Jersey detention center. Airlines are engaging with officials over the potential impacts, while Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said suspension of processing in sanctuary cities remains an extreme but possible option.

A House committee approved the Sunshine Protection Act, proposing permanent daylight saving time in the US. Supporters cite safety and economic benefits, while critics, including Senator Tom Cotton, warn of darker winter mornings. The measure must still pass both chambers of Congress after a similar 2022 Senate vote failed to advance. Donald Trump voiced support for ending daylight saving time.

A House committee advanced the Sunshine Protection Act to make daylight saving time permanent, renewing debate over eliminating biannual clock changes. Supporters argue the shift would improve safety, reduce sleep-related issues, and boost economic activity, while opponents warn of extremely late winter sunrises and safety concerns for children. The bill must still pass the full House and Senate, despite earlier Senate approval of a similar measure. The proposal has strong backing from lawmakers in Florida and New Jersey, though past attempts at permanent daylight saving time proved unpopular and were reversed.

US passenger airlines spent more than $5 billion on jet fuel in March, a 56 percent jump from February as prices rose sharply due to disruptions in global oil markets linked to the U.S.-Israel war with Iran. Carriers responded with higher fares, increased baggage fees and route cuts, with fuel costs now reaching up to a quarter of operating expenses. Spirit Airlines shut down after fuel cost spikes derailed its restructuring plan, while Southwest’s CEO noted that all airlines are under pressure. Low‑cost carriers requested a $2.5 billion government bailout, but the transportation secretary said it was not needed at this time.

Spirit Airlines abruptly ceased operations after soaring jet fuel prices linked to the Iran conflict derailed a proposed $500 million bailout, leaving thousands of passengers stranded and about 15,000 employees out of work. Creditors including Citadel rejected the rescue plan, undermining efforts by the Trump administration to keep the carrier afloat. Rival airlines implemented price caps and offered support to displaced passengers and staff. The shutdown follows Spirit’s prolonged financial struggles, failed merger attempt with JetBlue, and back-to-back bankruptcies, while rising fuel costs and changing traveler preferences further weakened its business model.

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby discussed a potential merger with American Airlines during a February meeting with Donald Trump, framing the deal as a way to strengthen international competitiveness. Experts warn the proposed merger would face substantial regulatory resistance over concerns including reduced competition and job losses. American Airlines’ stock rose after the report, while United’s remained steady.

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby proposed a potential merger with American Airlines during a February meeting with President Donald Trump, raising the prospect of a major consolidation likely to face significant regulatory challenges. Industry experts and administration sources expressed skepticism due to concerns about reduced competition, higher prices, and job losses in an already concentrated market. Analysts noted American’s financial pressures and heavy debt load, while regulatory officials warned that any deal would undergo strict scrutiny. Shares of American rose following the report, though both airlines declined to comment.

The White House budget proposes cutting TSA funding by $52 million and expanding a privatization program requiring small airports to use private screeners. The plan follows severe disruptions caused by unpaid TSA workers during a budget standoff that led to widespread absences and long security lines. Supporters argue privatization could safeguard airport security from congressional funding disputes, though concerns persist amid staffing shortages and over 500 recent resignations. The budget also allocates funds for hiring more air traffic controllers and reflects continued criticism of TSA performance, while noting the agency’s growth under the Biden administration and a record number of passengers screened in 2024.

A United Airlines Boeing 737 approaching John Wayne Airport in California narrowly avoided a collision when an Army Black Hawk helicopter crossed its path, with only 525 feet of vertical separation. The Federal Aviation Administration opened an investigation and is reviewing whether the incident violated its new restrictions on visual separation for helicopters operating near major airports.

A United Airlines Boeing 737 and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter experienced a near miss during the airliner’s approach to John Wayne Airport in Orange County, with only 525 feet of vertical separation. The FAA is investigating the incident and whether it violated a new policy restricting visual separation procedures for helicopters near major airports.

Delta Air Lines has paused airport escorts, VIP upgrades and rebooking assistance for members of Congress due to strain from the partial US government shutdown, though a special reservation line remains available. Severe TSA staffing shortages caused by unpaid wages have led to long security delays nationwide. CEO Ed Bastian criticized the situation as inexcusable and the use of TSA workers as political bargaining tools.

Delta suspended special services for members of Congress due to strain caused by the prolonged government shutdown, removing perks such as airport escorts and upgrades. TSA staffing shortages have produced severe security delays as thousands of officers quit or fail to report for work after going unpaid since February. Delta’s CEO condemned the situation and called for TSA workers to be paid, while airports across the country warned of hours‑long wait times despite the administration deploying immigration agents to assist.

Airports across the United States are providing food drives, donations and other support to unpaid TSA officers affected by a prolonged funding freeze at the Department of Homeland Security. Thousands of workers remain without pay for the second time in six months, prompting some to seek food assistance, side jobs or temporary housing. Union officials warn of rising resignations and potential security staffing shortages, while airports distribute meals, gift cards and transportation support. Congressional negotiations to restore DHS funding remain unresolved, and experts caution that continued financial strain will worsen worker attrition.

US auto safety regulators expanded an investigation into 3.2 million Tesla vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving after reports that the camera-based system failed to detect visibility issues and contributed to multiple crashes, including a fatality. The inquiry will assess whether updated degradation detection software improves safety. The probe increases scrutiny of Tesla’s driver-assistance technology as the company pursues approvals for FSD in global markets.

TSA officer absences surged to levels far above normal during the partial US government shutdown, with some airports reporting up to 50 percent of staff not reporting for duty. The shortages caused long security lines, forced closures of some airport checkpoints and raised concerns that smaller airports could face shutdowns. DHS reported that more than 360 TSA workers have quit during the period, while some airports have sought ways to support unpaid staff with essentials.

Global Entry was reinstated after a temporary suspension by the Department of Homeland Security during a partial government shutdown, which had caused long delays for international arrivals and led airlines and travel groups to demand its return. The agency reversed plans to halt TSA PreCheck as well, citing limited funding and personnel during the shutdown.

The US government reinstated the Global Entry program after airline and travel industry pressure as the Department of Homeland Security faced funding shortfalls during a partial shutdown. The suspension had caused severe delays at airports, compounded by TSA staff absences. Industry leaders criticized the abrupt suspension and urged Congress to resolve funding issues to ensure TSA operations and staffing stability.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is seeking public comment on Zoox’s request to deploy up to 2,500 steering‑wheel‑free robotaxis, part of Amazon’s expansion into autonomous vehicles. Zoox argues its vehicles match human‑driver safety and seeks exemptions from eight federal safety standards. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has supported updated rules enabling vehicles without human controls. Although NHTSA can authorize limited deployments, petitions have often stalled, including past attempts by General Motors. Zoox’s autonomous ride service currently operates in Las Vegas and San Francisco with expansion planned to several major U.S. cities.

Retail investors in Alphabet and Meta, supported by the Public Integrity Project, filed a lawsuit challenging Donald Trump’s approval of a joint venture allowing ByteDance to maintain control of TikTok’s U.S. operations, alleging the agreement violates a 2024 divestiture law. The suit argues that the deal enables continued Chinese influence over the platform and seeks a renegotiation that prevents political censorship. The legal challenge increases scrutiny of the arrangement, which Trump declined to enforce despite statutory divestiture requirements. ByteDance maintains that the new structure protects U.S. user data, though details remain limited. The Justice Department, White House and TikTok offered no comment.

Ford is recalling 4.3 million trucks and SUVs in the US due to a software defect that can cause trailer brake and lighting failures. Affected models include the F-150, F-250 SD, Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, Maverick, Ranger and E-Transit, with an over‑the‑air fix planned. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration warns that malfunctioning trailer systems increase crash risks. Ford has identified over 400 potentially related incidents but reports no crashes linked to the issue.

The FCC found no indecency violations in Bad Bunny’s all‑Spanish 2026 Super Bowl halftime performance after reviewing transcripts, rejecting complaints from Republican lawmakers who denounced the lyrics as inappropriate. Anna Gomez dismissed the claims as unfounded harassment, while politicians including Randy Fine, Andy Ogles, and Donald Trump publicly criticized the performance. Bad Bunny’s show marked the first entirely Spanish-language Super Bowl halftime performance and the first by a solo Latin artist.

The FCC reviewed Spanish-language transcripts of Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime performance after Republican lawmakers claimed the broadcast violated indecency rules. Commissioner Anna Gomez found no violations and no basis for further action. Several conservative politicians condemned the performance’s lyrics, though reports indicated the show omitted more explicit content. Bad Bunny became the first artist to deliver a halftime show entirely in Spanish, promoting messages of unity that drew criticism from Donald Trump. Conservative groups organized an alternative halftime event in response.

FCC chair Brendan Carr endorsed Nexstar’s proposed $3.54bn acquisition of Tegna, a deal that would create the largest regional television station operator in the US. The merger has support from Donald Trump and is positioned by Nexstar CEO Perry Sook as a way to strengthen local broadcasters against major technology and media companies. Industry experts note the consolidation would likely involve reducing redundancies. The announcement follows broader FCC efforts to roll back longstanding broadcast rules deemed outdated as the sector adapts to shifting consumer habits and the rise of internet-based viewing.

Democratic senators Ed Markey and Ron Wyden called on the Trump administration to abandon a proposal requiring visa waiver travellers to disclose five years of social media handles, arguing it would impose intrusive digital surveillance. The travel industry warned the policy could deter millions of visitors and harm the U.S. economy. The plan stems from a 2025 executive order expanding vetting measures and could soon be added to the ESTA process, alongside broader data collection proposals. The State Department separately ordered H‑1B applicants to make social media posts public for review.

A stop‑drive warning was issued in the United States for 225,000 older vehicles equipped with defective Takata airbag inflators after multiple deaths and injuries. Stellantis urged owners of specific Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, and Mitsubishi models from 2003 to 2016 to stop driving until repairs are completed, noting most recalled vehicles have already been fixed. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 28 U.S. deaths linked to exploding inflators and highlighted the severe risks posed even by minor crashes. Over 100 million vehicles worldwide have been recalled due to the Takata defect, with Honda confirming 20 U.S. fatalities in 2024 alone. Multiple automakers continue urging drivers of older models to replace affected inflators immediately.

Senior Trump administration officials promoted efforts to reduce car prices by rolling back emissions and electric vehicle regulations during a Midwestern tour. They argued the changes would lower costs and align with consumer preferences, despite record-high new car prices driven by demand for larger vehicles. The administration has eliminated EV tax credits, reversed California’s EV rules and eased fuel efficiency mandates while imposing tariffs on imported vehicles. Critics warned that these policies would increase fuel consumption and benefit the oil industry. Federal estimates suggest lower upfront vehicle costs but significantly higher long-term fuel expenses.

US regulators warned used car owners and repair shops after additional deaths linked to illegally imported DTN airbag inflators installed in Chevrolet Malibu and Hyundai Sonata vehicles. The faulty inflators ruptured during otherwise survivable crashes, causing fatal metal fragment injuries. NHTSA expanded its investigation into about 10,000 suspect inflators and alerted industry groups to report any findings. Hyundai stated the components were unauthorized counterfeit parts installed in salvaged vehicles, while GM declined comment. Consumers were urged to inspect replacement airbags in vehicles previously involved in collisions.

The U.S. transportation secretary called for airlines to replace unhealthy snacks with healthier alternatives while promoting a broader campaign to improve traveler behavior. He continues overseeing a multibillion‑dollar modernization of air traffic control and seeks additional congressional funding. The department recently withdrew a proposed compensation rule for flight delays, arguing it would raise fares, while noting that U.S. airlines are not required to compensate delayed passengers unlike several other countries.

USPS faces a $9 billion annual loss and is pursuing operational reforms and policy changes to address long‑term financial imbalances. Leadership emphasized the need for new revenue sources and legislative action, while the agency proposed significant price increases for several shipping services. Recent years include substantial federal relief, restructuring efforts, falling mail volumes, and workforce reductions. Political tensions surfaced around past White House pressure and leadership turnover as USPS seeks a sustainable financial path.

The Trump administration ended a Biden-era proposal that would have required airlines to pay cash compensation for lengthy flight delays, citing regulatory and cost concerns. Democratic senators had urged retention of the plan, which mirrored compensation systems in several other countries, while the Department of Transportation continues reviewing additional aviation-related regulations.

The U.S. Transportation Department under the Trump administration has withdrawn a Biden-era proposal that would have required airlines to pay passengers cash compensation for significant flight delays. The department cited unnecessary regulatory burdens and said airlines should compete voluntarily on service standards. Democratic senators urged the administration to keep the plan, while airlines supported the rollback. Officials also signaled plans to reverse other Biden rules on fee disclosures and revisit regulations on cancellations, pricing, and advertising.

Verizon plans to eliminate about 15,000 jobs, largely within non-union management, as part of a restructuring led by new CEO Dan Schulman. The company will also convert roughly 180 corporate-owned stores into franchises. Schulman intends to prioritize customer retention and cost reductions rather than price increases as Verizon faces slowing subscriber growth and heightened competition.

Verizon plans to cut about 15,000 jobs, representing roughly 15% of its workforce, as part of a restructuring effort led by new CEO Dan Schulman. The company will also convert around 180 corporate-owned stores into franchises. The changes follow stagnant share performance and mounting competition from AT&T and T-Mobile as subscriber growth slows. Schulman has emphasized cost reductions, avoiding price hikes and focusing on customer retention. Analysts say the layoffs may help offset the rising costs of subsidizing handsets to reduce subscriber churn. Verizon has made significant recent investments, including a $52 billion spectrum purchase and acquisitions of Frontier Communications and TracFone Wireless.

Toyota has opened a $13.9 billion battery plant in North Carolina and confirmed an additional $10 billion in U.S. manufacturing investment over five years as it expands hybrid and electric vehicle production. The facility will supply batteries for several Toyota models and support factories in Kentucky and Alabama, employing up to 5,000 workers at full capacity. Statements from company leaders and political figures highlighted Toyota’s multi-pathway approach to vehicle electrification, while recent U.S. policy changes under the Trump administration, including the rollback of EV incentives and fuel economy standards, were noted as influencing automaker strategies.

Toyota is recalling 1.02 million vehicles in the United States due to a software flaw that can cause rear‑view cameras to freeze or go blank, violating federal visibility requirements. The recall affects multiple Toyota and Lexus models from 2022 to 2026, as well as certain Subaru Solterra vehicles equipped with panoramic monitoring systems. Dealers will update the parking assist software. The announcement follows other recent industry recalls, including major rear‑camera‑related recalls by Ford and Stellantis.

China approved the agreement to transfer control of TikTok’s U.S. operations, confirmed by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. The deal follows a U.S. law requiring ByteDance to divest its American assets by January 2025, with Donald Trump signing an executive order supporting the sale and setting a 120‑day timeline. Under the terms, ByteDance will retain under 20 percent ownership, hold one of seven board seats, and allow U.S. partners to retrain and oversee the platform’s algorithm.

China approved a transfer agreement for TikTok’s U.S. operations, according to U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who expects the deal to advance in the coming months. The move follows U.S. legislation requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok’s U.S. assets by January 2025, with a Trump executive order granting additional time to finalize the sale. The agreement includes retraining and oversight of the algorithm by U.S. security partners, a new board dominated by American members, and ByteDance retaining less than a 20 percent stake. Some U.S. lawmakers have raised concerns about licensing arrangements related to the algorithm.

US senators again failed to agree on making daylight saving time permanent after Rick Scott sought to revive a previously approved bill and Tom Cotton blocked efforts to expedite it, leaving standard time set to resume nationwide on Sunday.

Democratic senators urged the Trump administration to reverse its plan to scrap a proposed rule requiring airlines to pay passengers up to $775 for delays caused by carriers. The Transportation Department is considering rescinding several Biden-era consumer protection regulations while developing new rules on cancellations, refunds and pricing. Airlines support eliminating the compensation proposal, and the administration has also reversed other Biden-era enforcement actions, including a lawsuit against Southwest Airlines.

Thousands of U.S. air traffic controllers are taking second jobs after missing their first full paycheck during a prolonged government shutdown, worsening strain on an already understaffed aviation system. Union officials warn that financial stress is distracting essential workers as flight delays continue to mount nationwide. The FAA and TSA remain short-staffed, with controllers and security officers working without pay amid a budget impasse between the White House and Congress. Airlines have seen widespread delays, increasing public pressure on lawmakers to end the shutdown, recalling similar disruptions during the 2019 federal funding lapse.

Warnings of significant US air travel disruption intensified as thousands of air traffic controllers and TSA officers prepared to miss paychecks during the ongoing government shutdown. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said delays are likely to worsen, with the FAA facing funding shortfalls that threaten training programs. Political blame continues between Republicans and Democrats over stalled negotiations. Union representatives highlighted growing stress among unpaid controllers, while staffing shortages and rising absences have already contributed to delays at major airports.

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is seeking information from Tesla following reports that a new, more aggressive 'Mad Max' Full Self-Driving mode may exceed speed limits. The inquiry adds to an ongoing investigation into millions of Tesla vehicles after dozens of reported traffic violations, crashes and injuries linked to FSD. Tesla has not commented, though a repost described the mode as faster and more assertive. Regulators say FSD has induced unlawful vehicle behavior, including entering intersections against red lights and causing collisions.

Ford is recalling nearly 1.45 million U.S. vehicles from model years 2015 to 2020 due to rear‑view cameras that may display distorted or blank images, increasing crash risk. The company has logged about 12,500 warranty claims and five related accidents but no injuries. The action follows earlier recalls and a $165 million civil penalty in 2024 for delayed defect reporting, and it covers multiple Ford and Lincoln models affected by the camera malfunction.

Ford is recalling nearly 1.45 million U.S. vehicles from model years 2015–2020 due to defective rear‑view cameras, following earlier global recalls and regulatory pressure from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Additional models will receive extended warranty coverage under a previously agreed plan for vehicles equipped with analog cameras. Ford has logged about 12,500 related warranty claims and five accidents without injuries and recently faced a $165 million civil penalty for delayed recalls. The company will not take new charges for the latest action.

A video produced by the Department of Homeland Security featuring Secretary Kristi Noem blaming Democrats for the ongoing US government shutdown is being shown at airports as the lapse in federal funding causes widespread flight delays. More than 20,000 delays have occurred since Monday, driven largely by air traffic controller absences, while TSA staff continue working without pay. Democrats have rejected a Republican funding proposal lacking healthcare subsidies, and both parties continue to blame each other as the shutdown persists.

Construction at a Hyundai-LG battery plant in Georgia was halted after a major ICE raid led to the arrest of roughly 475 workers, mostly South Korean nationals accused of illegal employment status. The operation, the largest of its kind by DHS, intensified tensions between the US and South Korea amid significant Korean investment in American manufacturing. Hyundai emphasized that none of those arrested were direct employees and pledged a compliance review, while LG Energy Solutions paused construction. Political reactions were sharply divided, with Georgia Democrats condemning the raid and state officials defending it. The facility is part of multibillion‑dollar EV production investments supplying Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis models.

The United States revoked Romania’s recent admission to the visa waiver program following a Department of Homeland Security review that concluded the designation should be rescinded to protect program integrity and border security. Romania had been set to join the program after meeting security requirements, but implementation was paused in March. The decision comes amid Romania’s pivotal presidential election redo, triggered by the annulment of last year’s vote over alleged violations and claims of Russian interference. Rising economic dissatisfaction and anti-establishment sentiment have fueled support for nationalist and far-right figures, though leading candidate Calin Georgescu is barred from the rerun. Meanwhile, foreign air arrivals to the US have declined, while US citizens continue to enjoy visa-free travel to Romania.

A Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-800 aborted takeoff at Orlando International Airport after its crew attempted to depart from a taxiway, prompting intervention from air traffic control. No injuries occurred, and the aircraft returned safely to the gate. The FAA and NTSB have launched investigations as part of broader scrutiny following a series of recent U.S. aviation safety incidents. The FAA is implementing enhanced runway safety technology at dozens of airports, while Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy plans upgrades to aging air traffic control systems amid ongoing staffing shortages contributing to near‑miss events nationwide.

Major US airlines and the industry group Airlines for America filed a legal challenge against a Biden administration rule strengthening protections for wheelchair users, arguing parts of it exceed the Transportation Department’s authority. The regulation requires airlines to meet stricter standards for handling wheelchairs, reimburse passengers for damage, and provide temporary replacements. Transportation officials defend the rule as a major expansion of rights for disabled travelers, citing persistent mishandling issues and previous fines levied against carriers.

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration restored its NOTAM safety notification system after an outage that began late Saturday, prompting temporary workaround measures for airlines. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the aging system requires upgrading but reported minimal disruption. Flight delays reached over a thousand, though it is unclear how many were caused by the outage. The incident follows a series of recent U.S. aviation accidents, including a fatal collision involving an American Airlines jet and a military helicopter and a deadly medical evacuation plane crash in Philadelphia.

US safety officials warned airlines that some Boeing 737 aircraft may contain rudder components capable of jamming, following incidents involving United Airlines and two foreign carriers. The National Transportation Safety Board raised concerns that many operators may be unaware of the affected actuators, criticizing Boeing for inadequate disclosure. Foreign carriers, including All Nippon Airways, began preparing to remove the parts, while Japan Airlines reported none of its planes were affected. The FAA initiated additional reviews and coordination with aviation authorities as Boeing shares fell in response to renewed scrutiny.

The FAA is investigating a near collision in San Diego in which a Cessna business jet passed about 100 feet over a Southwest Boeing 737 after an air traffic controller cleared both aircraft onto the same runway. Automated surveillance systems alerted the controller, who instructed the Cessna to discontinue landing. The NTSB is probing multiple recent runway incursion incidents, including similar near misses in Austin and Boston involving FedEx, Southwest, and JetBlue aircraft.

Truckers protesting Canada’s COVID-19 measures blocked the Ambassador Bridge, disrupting a major U.S.–Canada trade route and forcing production cuts at Toyota, Ford, Stellantis, and General Motors. The blockade caused parts shortages, halting Toyota’s Ontario operations for the week and leading GM to cancel shifts in Michigan. Authorities warned of economic harm and escalating enforcement, while federal officials condemned the blockade as illegal and urged protesters to leave.

US regulators announced a Tesla recall covering more than 817,000 vehicles because an audible seat belt reminder chime may fail to activate due to a software error. The affected models include various Model S, X, 3 and Y vehicles from recent years. Tesla will correct the issue with an over‑the‑air update and reports no related crashes or injuries. The defect was first flagged by South Korea’s automotive testing institute. The recall follows other recent Tesla actions, including the removal of a Full Self-Driving feature that enabled rolling stops at intersections.

Heightened security measures were implemented around Washington, including increased TSA presence and preparations by Capitol Police, ahead of a planned pro-Trump rally supporting individuals charged in the January 6 attack. Federal officials warned of possible violence but reported no specific credible threats, with concerns largely driven by social media activity. Organizers claim political persecution of more than 600 defendants, while authorities reinstalled fencing and readied potential National Guard support. Congressional leaders and police expressed confidence in their preparedness as the event approached.