Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk temporarily closed on January 8 due to severe wildfire conditions fueled by intense winds in the Los Angeles area. The closure marks the first shutdown for the popular theme park since the COVID-19 pandemic. Park officials confirmed that operations are expected to resume on January 9, emphasizing that the safety of staff and visitors remains a top priority.
United Airlines Boeing 777-200ER Diverts to Atlanta After Engine Failure
Introduction
A United Airlines flight from Orlando to Chicago O'Hare was forced to divert to Atlanta after one of its engines failed mid-flight on January 3, 2025. The Boeing 777-200ER, operating flight UA1828, departed Orlando at 9:35 PM UTC and encountered the issue roughly an hour later. The flight crew notified passengers about the engine loss, prompting an emergency diversion.
Six Tourists Hospitalized After Cocktails at Luxury Resort in Fiji
Introduction
Six tourists were hospitalized after consuming piña coladas at a five-star resort in Fiji, sparking concerns over the safety of beverages served at the venue. The incident, which occurred on December 14, 2024, affected a group of international travelers, including four Australians, one American, and two foreign nationals living in Fiji.
FAA Extends Ban on U.S. Flights to Haiti Amid Continued Instability
Introduction
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has extended its prohibition on U.S. airlines flying to Haiti through March 12, citing ongoing instability in the country. This decision follows the expiration of a 30-day ban initially imposed after two aircraft were struck by gunfire on November 11 at Port-au-Prince’s international airport.
Princess Cruises Adjusts Regal Princess Itineraries for Engine Maintenance
Introduction
Princess Cruises has announced modifications to upcoming Regal Princess itineraries departing from Galveston, Texas, to address essential engine maintenance. The changes affect sailings scheduled for December 8, January 5, January 12, and January 19.
For the first three departures, the planned calls to Costa Maya, Mexico, will be replaced with extended overnight stays on the Honduran island of Roatan. On the January 19 voyage, the visit to Montego Bay, Jamaica, will also be substituted with a longer stay in Roatan.
FAA Bans U.S. Flights to Haiti Following Gang Gunfire on Planes
Introduction
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has prohibited U.S. airlines from flying to Haiti for 30 days following a series of violent incidents where gangs fired on multiple planes. The ban significantly disrupts air travel and humanitarian aid to the nation grappling with severe gang violence.
On Monday, a Spirit Airlines plane was struck by bullets while landing at Port-au-Prince’s airport, injuring a flight attendant and forcing the airport’s closure. Photos and videos showed bullet holes throughout the plane's interior, highlighting the severity of the attack.
Rough Seas Challenge Royal Caribbean's Odyssey of the Seas on Transatlantic Crossing
Introduction
Passengers aboard Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas faced turbulent conditions during the ship's transatlantic voyage from Rome to New York, as severe storms forced an abrupt course adjustment. The captain’s announcement warned passengers about potential rough weather and advised them to remain seated for safety during the maneuver.
Royal Caribbean Sticks to Haiti Stop, Even as Haiti’s Skies Get Dicey
Introduction
In the wake of a security incident at Port-au-Prince’s international airport, Royal Caribbean International has announced it will continue planned stops at Labadee, its exclusive destination on Haiti’s northern coast. This commitment follows an incident on Monday, November 11, in which flights from Spirit Airlines and JetBlue were hit by gunfire while landing in Port-au-Prince, leading to temporary suspensions from both airlines.
Spirit Airlines Flight Hit by Gunfire in Haiti, Crew Member Injured
Introduction
A Spirit Airlines flight en route to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, was struck by gunfire on Monday, resulting in minor injuries to a flight attendant. Spirit confirmed that its flight from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was rerouted to the Dominican Republic following the incident. An inspection of the aircraft revealed damage consistent with gunfire. No passengers were injured, and the injured crew member is receiving medical evaluation. Spirit announced it is temporarily suspending flights to Haiti for further safety evaluation.
Princess Cruises Cancels Two Regal Princess Sailings from Galveston for Repairs
Introduction
Princess Cruises recently canceled two Regal Princess sailings departing from Galveston, Texas, citing the need for "technical repairs." The affected voyages include the October 27 Western Caribbean cruise, which was canceled just two days prior to departure, and the November 3 itinerary, which was canceled shortly afterward. The cruise line has stated that the ship is expected to resume operations for its next scheduled departure on November 10.