LOS ANGELES — Flames licking the night sky forced Delta Air Lines Flight 446 to make a swift U-turn back to Los Angeles International Airport on Friday, rattling travelers bound for Atlanta and raising new questions about engine-safety procedures at the world’s second-largest carrier.

LOS ANGELES — Delta Air Lines will restart nonstop service between Los Angeles International Airport and Hong Kong on June 6, 2026, ending an eight-year hiatus and setting the stage for a fierce fight among three carriers already vying for Southern California’s large share of Asia-bound traffic.

TSA pilots “shoe-on security screening” at major hubs

The era of barefoot airport checkpoints may be drawing to a close. Transportation Security Administration officers have begun allowing travelers to leave their footwear on during screening at a handful of U.S. airports, ending a ritual that has frustrated fliers for nearly two decades.

Where you can keep your shoes on—for now

According to the TSA, the pilot program is already in place at:

Delta Air Lines will introduce a new route between Los Angeles (LAX) and Melbourne (MEL) next winter, expanding its presence in Australia. The thrice-weekly service is set to begin on December 3, marking Delta’s third route to the country alongside its year-round LAX–Sydney and seasonal LAX–Brisbane flights.

The airline will operate the route using an Airbus A350-900, offering business, premium economy, and economy seating. Delta will compete with United Airlines and Qantas, both of which already serve the LAX–Melbourne market.

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.

The Petersen Automotive Museum is gearing up to host the legendary Ford GT90, a vehicle that has enthralled car enthusiasts with its futuristic design and powerful performance since its debut. The Ford GT 90 started its journey on July 9; soon, thanks to a partnership with Hajek Motorsports and Reliable Carriers, visitors will have the unique opportunity to view this groundbreaking concept car for an entire year.

Brightline West has officially launched construction on a high-speed rail line that will connect Las Vegas and Southern California, with an anticipated completion date in 2028. This significant milestone was marked by a groundbreaking ceremony at the future Brightline West train station in Las Vegas, attended by Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Brightline West executives, and local government officials.