SOUTHWEST AIRLINES
'I don't know what to do': Student pilot on first solo flight caught in US shutdown
FAA ground stop flights cancelled: A nationwide FAA ground stop triggered by a communications network failure disrupted US air travel for more than four hours on Friday, leaving tens of thousands of passengers stranded and forcing airlines to scramble. A student pilot on his first solo cross-country flight was among those caught up in the chaos, while passengers aboard a Southwest flight witnessed an impromptu midair concert by touring rock bands.
Before you accept that flight credit after the ground stop, read this: Rebooking could cost you your refund
Passengers faced significant disruptions due to the FAA's ground stop on November 13th as cancellations increased. Airlines implemented travel waivers allowing customers to modify travel plans without fees, but refunds are often overlooked. Individuals may qualify for full refunds if flights are canceled or substantially changed by airlines, regardless of the situation. It is essential for passengers to know their rights before accepting flight credits or cancelling bookings.
US air travel schedule should recover from ground stop by the end of Sunday, FAA says
Airlines across the United States faced significant disruptions as thousands of flights were canceled due to a nationwide ground stop. The Federal Aviation Administration reported that this delay was caused by complications in updating air traffic control systems. Passengers experienced long waits at airports, leading to considerable frustration and travel delays. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy suggested that outdated equipment contributed to the recent issues faced by airlines.
Thousands of flights canceled as airlines work to dig out from nationwide ground stop
Airlines across the U.S. experienced major disruptions due to a nationwide ground stop that lasted for over four hours. The ground stop resulted in the cancellation of more than 2,500 flights and left many travelers stranded. Sports teams had to change travel plans, with some opting to take buses instead of flights. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated that aging technology contributed to the communication failures experienced.
WATCH: Rock band Hoobastank performs mid-flight for stranded passengers amid FAA ground stop while travelling for the Warped Tour
On November 13, 2026, the skies over the US fell silent for over four hours as a major telecommunications outage grounded flights, breaking a 25-year record of air traffic disruptions. The Federal Aviation Administration indicated the effects spanned multiple regional control systems. To lighten the mood, Hoobastank took to the air, performing classic hits for stranded passengers.
Trump official seeks $50 billion for air traffic control after outage
FAA flights grounded: After a nationwide groundstop halted thousands of flights, the Trump administration increased its air traffic control funding request. The official request has risen from $30.1 billion to $50 billion due to ongoing issues. Funding aims to modernize aging airports and enhance air traffic systems across the United States. Major airlines have shown support for this funding request during this critical safety period.
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Airlines go premium as demand for business-class seats outpaces economy
Since 2020, airlines have increased the number of premium seats significantly to meet growing consumer demand. Airlines are adopting strategies to enhance premium offerings, including gourmet meals and exclusive lounges. This focus has resulted in premium products generating substantial ticket revenue. Various airlines are implementing new options, such as Economy Plus and first-class services.
US Stock Market today: Why are S&P 500, Nasdaq down ahead of November 3 Election Day? Apple, Palantir to Alphabet, Nvidia -- check top, worst performing Wall Street stocks
Wall Street invetsors on Monday were driven by several factors including Tuesday's Election Day for US Midterm elections.
Airlines can't predict oil prices anymore. Travellers may be left footing the bill
Airlines globally face challenges in fuel cost hedging as prices remain elevated due to geopolitical tensions. Major airlines like AirAsia and Ryanair have halted new hedges, anticipating further fare increases. Higher fuel costs may push ticket prices up by 15% to 20%, straining consumer willingness to pay. Many US and European airlines have reduced hedging, exposing them to market fluctuations.
EasyJet to offer Starlink internet onboard some flights from 2027
EasyJet has revealed an exciting new partnership with Starlink, promising high-speed internet across its Airbus fleet. The rollout is set to begin between early 2027 and early 2028. CEO Kenton Jarvis acknowledged the financial hurdles of providing onboard Wi-Fi. This announcement comes on the heels of a similar pact by rival Wizz Air, while Ryanair raises cost concerns about adopting this innovative technology.
Saudi Aramco administrative building at Dhahran headquarters attacked
A limited fire broke out in an Aramco administrative building without injuries reported amid escalating tensions. The Saudi-led coalition conducted airstrikes on Houthi positions in Yemen in response to missile threats. Houthi forces retaliated by claiming they would target Saudi Arabia if attacked. Fighting in Taiz resulted in casualties and food shortages, leading to civilian displacement.
Southwest Airlines weighs Boeing 787 for long-haul international push, sources say
Southwest Airlines is evaluating the Boeing 787 Dreamliner as its potential first widebody jet. The airline has maintained discussions concerning long-haul international flights and its fleet expansion strategy. It is also exploring options to acquire aircraft through lessors or the secondary market. Southwest currently operates an all-Boeing 737 fleet, while Airbus is also being considered for future needs.
Air India Delhi-Riyadh flight turns back midway as Houthi attacks hit Saudi airports, all Riyadh flights halt till October 10
Air India flight AI2243 took off from Delhi towards Riyadh but turned around during its journey due to safety concerns. This decision came after Houthi attacks on airports in Saudi Arabia intensified. As a precaution, Air India and Air India Express announced the suspension of all operations to and from Riyadh. The suspension will remain in effect until October 10, 2026, affecting numerous travelers.
Houthis claim new attack against airport in Saudi capital as witness reports evacuation
Several explosions were heard in Saudi Arabia's capital Riyadh on Thursday, including a large blast at King Khalid International Airport, a witness told AP. Flights were halted, passengers evacuated and emergency crews deployed. The cause remains unclear, with no immediate claim of responsibility, amid heightened Saudi-Houthi tensions and regional conflict.
Malaysia Airlines stopped using flight code MH370 after the plane disappeared with 239 people aboard - why airlines retire flight numbers after aviation tragedies
Malaysia Airlines MH370: Malaysia Airlines changed flight numbers MH370 and MH371 following the aircraft's disappearance in March 2014. The aircraft, carrying 239 people, vanished during its journey from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing. Extensive search operations were conducted in the Indian Ocean, but the main wreckage remains undiscovered.
US FAA says Boeing 737 MAX software glitch poses no safety issue
The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that Boeing can proceed with the certification of the 737 MAX 10. A recent panel determined that the software issue does not pose safety concerns for the aircraft. This decision allows for a potential certification of the MAX 10 later this month. Airlines using the MAX 7, which shares the same software, will also benefit from this determination.
Aviation security measures under new scrutiny after in-flight attack on FlyDubai pilot
The alleged stabbing of captain by his co-pilot on a FlyDubai flight bound for Tel Aviv has exposed potential gaps in crew screening, cockpit security and emergency response protocols. Investigators from Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Israel, with assistance from the US and Oman, are examining the incident, including pilot vetting, the handling of distress calls and how the crew member was cleared to operate the Israel-bound flight.
DoorDash to create 3,000 jobs at global tech centre in India
DoorDash will create 3,000 jobs in India over the next two years through a new global technology hub in Hyderabad, its second tech office in the country after Pune. The centre will initially focus on customer support and administrative functions, adding to Hyderabad’s growing roster of global capability centres.
High airfares could stick around even if jet fuel prices fall
US airfares could remain elevated even if jet fuel prices fall, as airlines adjust schedules and ticket prices only gradually after sharp swings in fuel costs. With carriers cutting less-profitable flights and holiday fares already at decade highs, analysts say sustained relief for travellers may take months even if energy prices stabilise.
Indian executives are gaining clout in US corporate boardrooms
The landscape of S&P 500 boards has seen a noteworthy shift, with Indian men now occupying a record 16 seats. This development reflects the increasing preference for directors equipped with CEO-level expertise. In contrast, Indian women's representation on boards continues to stagnate. Compounding these dynamics, future entry for Indian executives into the US job market may face challenges due to prevailing immigration policies.
Boeing flags 737 MAX software glitch affecting landing navigation feature, WSJ reports
Boeing has identified a software glitch affecting the 737 MAX's automated navigation during landing scenarios. After a software update, pilots may experience reduced access to automated flight guidance. The Federal Aviation Administration acknowledges this issue and is closely working with Boeing and the airlines. Southwest Airlines and United Airlines have delayed new 737 MAX deliveries due to the flawed software.
Dolly Parton Day 2026: Donating book to Imagination Library, renaming airport, Southwest Airlines karaoke announcement, to pink lights, poster to honor late American singer in Nashville, New York City, California, around the world
In Nashville — where Parton had lived since she was 18 — the city will honor the singer with pink lights and posters and give away stickers, buttons and bookmarks.
Southwest Airlines flight attendant dies at 50 during Hawaii layover; police investigate
In a heartbreaking incident, Southwest Airlines flight attendant Jennifer Lupton passed away during her layover in Hawaii. Authorities in Waikiki are probing the details of her untimely demise and are actively interviewing potential witnesses while examining surveillance recordings. Southwest Airlines has confirmed the loss, offering their heartfelt support to family members and colleagues, and remains committed to assisting local law enforcement in their inquiries.
Southwest Airlines’ new seating policy raises concerns for plus-size travelers
Southwest Airlines will implement stricter rules for plus-size passengers. Starting January 27, travelers unable to fit in a standard seat must purchase an extra seat. This change coincides with the introduction of assigned seating. Refunds for the extra seat are possible under certain conditions. Concerns arise about the impact on customer comfort and the airline's identity.
US airline Southwest changes seating rules, raising costs for plus-size flyers
Southwest Airlines will soon change its policy. Passengers needing extra seat space must buy an additional ticket in advance. This ends the previous policy of refunds or free seats at the airport. The new rule starts January 27 next year. Advocates for plus-size travelers are disappointed. They say this change will increase travel costs.
Flyers fume as Southwest Airlines shocks passengers with policy changes — key updates you need to know
Southwest Airlines has ended its long-standing 'Bags Fly Free' policy for most travelers, effective May 28. Passengers will now pay $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second, aligning with competitors. CEO Bob Jordan cites evolving customer needs and industry trends as reasons for the change, aiming to boost profitability and modernize the airline.
Southwest Airlines policy update: Airline enters new era with bag fees and other changes. Check rates
Southwest Airlines is undergoing significant changes to its fare structure and flight credit policies, moving away from its traditional approach. The elimination of free checked bags marks the end of an era for Southwest and the US airline industry. Southwest is implementing bag fees 17 years after the other major US carriers started charging for checked bags.
Southwest Airlines breaks with another tradition and checked bags will cost you now
Southwest Airlines will start charging for checked bags, ending a key differentiator from rivals. Only upper-tier Rapid Rewards members, business class ticket holders, and airline credit cardholders will get free checked bags. This change is part of broader efforts to boost profits and streamline operations, including job cuts and future assigned seating.
Southwest Airlines set to end free baggage policy, introduce basic economy: Who will pay, how much will it cost?
Southwest Airlines, once known for resisting industry norms, is now embracing revenue-focused strategies, including bag fees and basic economy.
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