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Airport security roundup reveals bizarre items confiscated from passengers

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Turtles, razor blades and even a replica pipe bomb were just a few of the shocking items confiscated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in 2025, the agency reported recently. 

The agency detailed the security incidents in a post on its official Instagram account, showcasing items discovered in both carry-on and checked baggage at airports across the country.

Here are 10 discoveries revealed by the TSA.

‘SECURITY-RELATED SITUATION’ GROUNDS FLIGHT TO VACATION HOT SPOT, PASSENGERS CONFINED FOR HOURS

1. Explosive device replica in checked luggage

At Boise Airport (BOI), officers discovered a replica pipe bomb and imitation explosive materials inside a checked bag, TSA said.

The agency emphasized that both real and replica explosive devices are strictly prohibited in any baggage.

The TSA published a summary of the strangest and most alarming items it confiscated at airport security checkpoints throughout 2025. (iStock)

2. Turtles hidden in passengers’ clothing

In two separate incidents, TSA officers discovered turtles hidden on passengers — one concealed inside a traveler’s pants at Newark Liberty (EWR) and two others hidden inside a bra at Miami (MIA).

NATION’S ‘MOST STRESSFUL’ AIRPORT CALLED OUT IN STUDY FOR POOR CHECK-IN TIMES, DEPARTURE DELAYS

“What the shell!” TSA wrote in the post.

3. Razor blades wrapped and hidden in clothing

At Denver International Airport (DEN), TSA officers discovered 20 razor blades wrapped in paper towels and hidden in a passenger’s clothing.

4. Illegal drugs packed in carry-on bag

At Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA), TSA officers discovered a carry-on bag containing heroin, fentanyl pills, methamphetamine, ketamine, acid tabs, Xanax bars and other controlled substances concealed inside footwear.

Airport security officers review X-ray scanner images at a TSA checkpoint while monitoring passenger luggage.

TSA officers found turtles hidden on passengers, including one in a traveler’s pants at Newark Liberty (EWR) and two inside a bra at Miami (MIA). (iStock)

5. Blade concealed in knee brace

A passenger at Quad Cities International Airport (MLI) attempted to hide a knife inside a knee brace. The item was discovered during routine screening.

“Knife try!” TSA said.

6. Suspected illegal drugs concealed inside container

At Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), officers encountered controlled substances concealed inside a toiletry container.

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TSA noted that while officers are not actively searching for narcotics, any suspected illegal items are referred to law enforcement.

“There are going to be extremely strange outliers.”

7. Knife hidden in child’s car seat

Screeners at Dallas–Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) found a knife concealed inside a child’s car seat.

Sharp objects are not allowed in carry-on bags and must be placed in checked luggage, TSA said on its website.

Airport security officer wearing blue gloves inspects a passenger’s floral bag at a TSA screening checkpoint.

Notable items included a knife stashed in a knee brace and suspected illegal drugs intercepted in Anchorage. (iStock)

8. Ammunition in carry-on bag

A passenger at Miami International Airport (MIA) attempted to bring ammunition through the checkpoint in a carry-on.

TSA said bullets must be transported in checked baggage under specific packaging requirements.

9. Improperly declared firearm 

At George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), TSA officers intercepted a firearm that had not been properly declared.

The agency reminded travelers that guns must be properly packaged and declared before flying.

10. Bullets and knives improperly packed

Passengers at Akron–Canton Airport (CAK) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) were stopped after attempting to bring ammunition and knives through security checkpoints.

Crowded airport security checkpoint with long lines of passengers waiting at multiple screening lanes.

The agency reminded travelers to review what items are permitted on flights before heading to the airport. (iStock)

TSA said such items are permitted only in checked baggage when properly packaged and in compliance with federal regulations.

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Gary Leff, a Texas-based travel industry expert and author of the blog “View From the Wing,” told Fox News Digital that unusual incidents are statistically inevitable, given the volume of passengers screened each day.

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“Nothing that airline passengers do ever surprises me — because with over 2.5 million people a day passing through security checkpoints (with varying degrees of expectations, forgetfulness and even sense), there are going to be extremely strange outliers,” he said.

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Leff added that while the behavior should not be excused, publicizing the incidents may serve as a reminder for travelers to review security rules before heading to the airport.

Screeners recount the craziest objects confiscated at U.S. checkpoints

Kelly McGreal is a production assistant with the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. 

Known evidence in the Nancy Guthrie case

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TUCSON, Ariz. — Nancy Guthrie has been missing from her home in Tucson’s Catalina Foothills since the early morning hours of Feb. 1, according to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department in Arizona.

She’s the 84-year-old mother of “Today” co-host Savannah Guthrie, and her disappearance has garnered international attention.

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said early in the investigation that her home was viewed as a crime scene and indicated that she’d been removed from it against her will.

Since then, new evidence has emerged publicly and behind the scenes, but deputies and the FBI have not named any suspects or made any arrests.

A $10 WALMART GUN HOLSTER COULD HELP IDENTIFY SUSPECT IN NANCY GUTHRIE CASE

An undated photo of Nancy Guthrie and Savannah Guthrie was provided by NBC in response to the disappearance of the 84-year-old mother of the “Today” show host. (Courtesy of NBC)

The timeline

Earlier this month, Nanos revealed a timeline showing Guthrie ate dinner with relatives and was dropped off at home by family around 9:48 p.m. on Jan. 31. Detectives determined her garage door closed at 9:50.

ADVANCED VIDEO EQUIPMENT SEEN AT NANCY GUTHRIE HOME AS EXPERTS BREAK DOWN ITS POSSIBLE ROLE

Timeline on TV of Guthrie disappearance

The Pima County Sheriff’s Department released a timeline of events in Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance. (Fox News Digital/Michael Ruiz)

At 1:47 a.m. on Feb. 1, her Nest doorbell camera went offline. At 2:28 a.m., Guthrie’s pacemaker device lost connection with her smartphone. She was reported missing around noon later that day.

WATCH: Video of subject in Nancy Guthrie case

Here’s a look at the key evidence: 

1. The video

Shocking video recovered from her missing Nest camera shows a masked man on her doorstep, who appears to be carrying a stuffed backpack and a holstered gun.

RETIRED FBI AGENT URGES RAPID DNA TESTING IN GUTHRIE CASE: ‘YOU DON’T WAIT FOR FEDEX ON MONDAY MORNING’

The video contains several clues about the suspect. According to FBI analysts, he is between 5 feet, 9 inches tall and 5 feet, 10 inches tall, has a medium build and was carrying a black Ozark Trail brand backpack, sold at Walmart stores for around $11.

The $10 holster has also been tentatively identified as another Walmart product, a large-sized Strategy branded hip holster designed for a revolver, according to a Miami-area police officer who is not connected to the case. The weapon, however, appears to be a small semiautomatic pistol, the officer said.

A side-by-side comparison of a grainy security camera image showing a person with a holstered weapon and a retail package for a Strategy brand hip holster

A surveillance image (left) shows a person of interest in the Nancy Guthrie investigation with what appears to be a holstered firearm, alongside a photo of a Strategy Large Frame Revolver Hip Holster (right) similar to the one identified by investigators. (FBI Arizona, Michael Ruiz/Fox News Digital)

Walmart has extensive surveillance systems at its stores and may be able to help investigators track when the items were purchased and by whom.

POLICE REQUEST NEIGHBOR SURVEILLANCE FOOTAGE FROM NARROW TIMEFRAMES BEFORE NANCY GUTHRIE VANISHED

The suspect appeared to block the camera with a handful of plant matter before the video ended. The camera itself was not present at the scene when police arrived.

The FBI’s ability to recover footage was a groundbreaking investigatory move. Guthrie had several other cameras at her home, and it remains unclear whether investigators can obtain more video that could help crack the case.

A split photo of the suspect seen in surveillance video and the backpack investigators are searching for

Federal authorities comb store records and video in the Nancy Guthrie case, with former FBI agent Jason Pack explaining how retail forensics builds cases. (FBI, Derek Shook for Fox News Digital)

2. The DNA

Investigators have recovered a DNA sample from an unknown individual from inside the Guthrie home. It came from someone other than Guthrie or any of her close contacts, like relatives and hired help, according to authorities.

They were checking it against a glove recovered from inside a two-mile search radius around the house, which the FBI said “appears to match the gloves of the subject in the surveillance video” and contained DNA consistent with an “unknown male profile” that was expected to be checked against the federal database sometime Monday.

Investigators found 16 gloves in all, according to the FBI, but just one was an apparent match to those seen in the video.

Exterior of Nancy Guthrie's house in Tucson, Arizona, showing several red droplets.

An exterior view of the front entrance of Nancy Guthrie’s home in Tucson, Arizona, on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. (Derek Shook for Fox News Digital)

3. The blood

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A trail of blood drops on Guthrie’s front steps is a genetic match to the missing woman, according to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department.

Investigators have not confirmed whether it was there before she was taken, and Sheriff Nanos has declined to discuss specific evidence from inside the home.

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Nancy Guthrie billboard in in Albuquerque, New Mexico

An FBI billboard in Albuquerque, N.M., has raised raising awareness about the search for missing Nancy Guthrie.  (KRQE)

4. The pacemaker

The pacemaker helped determine a potential timeline for Guthrie’s abduction, when it lost connection to her smartphone, as well as providing a potential trail.

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Authorities deployed a high-tech Bluetooth scanning device by air in search of the signal from Guthrie’s pacemaker.

The search was unsuccessful.

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FBI agents canvassing a residential neighborhood near Nancy Guthrie's home

FBI agents canvass homes near Nancy Guthrie’s home in Tucson, Friday, Feb. 6, 2026. (Kat Ramirez for Fox News Digital)

5. Cameras and digital forensics

Roadside surveillance and security cameras as well as cell tower data and similar digital forensics are expected to provide key leads in investigations like this, experts tell Fox News Digital.

Behind the scenes, this type of information may have played a role in how investigators approach potential persons of interest, including the brief questioning of a Rio Rico man earlier in the investigation.

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Investigators have received thousands of tips in the case, and they have asked for those living within a two-mile radius of Guthrie’s home to submit home security video showing anything suspicious or unusual between Jan. 1 and Feb. 2.

Undisclosed information from an informant led to police and FBI activity Friday night that included the search of a home and a vehicle around the corner, as well as the temporary detainment of three people — none of whom were charged with a crime or called suspects in connection with the warrant.

The FBI is offering a $100,000 reward for information that cracks the case. Dial 1-800-CALL-FBI.

B2B Social Media Marketing: Build a Winning Strategy

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RPR Comando is back with “B2B Social Media Marketing: Build a Winning Strategy” B2B social media marketing has evolved far beyond brand awareness posts and occasional company updates. Today, it functions as a core demand-generation engine that builds authority, relationships, leads, and ultimately revenue across the buyer journey. Yet many B2B organizations still struggle to translate social activity into measurable business impact. This article first appeared on https://rprcomando.com/b2b-social-media-marketing-build-a-winning-strategy/ #BookMarketing #PRDistribution #PressReleaseMarketing

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Popular Cotswolds town may battle ‘bin blight’ with fines for ruining Instagram tourism

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The Cotswolds in the United Kingdom attracts tourists from all over the world for its alluring rolling hills, quaint villages and historic mountains.

Now, one town in the region is looking to maintain its enduring beauty — and its global allure — by proposing a fine on locals who leave out their trash cans too long. 

The effort is apparently about appealing to tourists who are busy snapping Instagrams. It is also connected to housing costs. 

ISLAND CRACKS DOWN AS TOURISTS ARE SLAPPED WITH NEW FEES, FED-UP LOCALS REVOLT

The Tewkesbury Civic Society first proposed a “Rid Tewkesbury of Bin Blight” plan back in June, according to news agency SWNS.

It recommended that permanent trash cans be removed from the street after collection, according to committee meeting notes.

The town of Tewkesbury, in Gloucestershire in the Cotswolds, is considering fines for those who leave their trash cans out after garbage collection.  (iStock)

On Feb. 10, a working group submitted a six-month pilot proposal to introduce a “graduated approach” to enforcement.

“Tewkesbury’s unique Conservation Area was being severely degraded by domestic and, increasingly, commercial bins,” said the original petitioner’s statement.

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“The local economy was diminished and … they were confident property values, inward investment and business, including tourism, were all potentially affected,” it continued.

Other concerns presented by the group were about animals coming through and messing with the trash cans.

Cotswolds town trash bins

The civic society chair said visitors complain that trash bins create unwanted backgrounds for tourists’ photos. They also interfere with space to walk the streets.  (SWNS)

Fines would be issued only to “persistent offenders” as a last resort after multiple written warnings, with the working group suggesting “community protection notices” that consist of fines typically over $100.

Alan Purkiss, the Civic Society’s chair, said the town’s conservation area is being “severely degraded” by domestic bins.

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“People come to tell me that they’ve been approached by visitors saying, ‘It’s a pity about the bins,’” said Purkiss, as SWNS reported. 

He added, “You wouldn’t really want to have a row of bins if you were photographing here. Would this be the kind of background you want?”

Cotswolds town with trash cans

“It’s a lovely old town. But if you’re disabled, in a wheelchair or in a buggy, you can’t get past sometimes due to the bins,” said the chair of the Tewkesbury Civic Society.  (SWNS)

Over five million people visited the Cotswolds for day trips in 2024 — while 543,000 people traveled for overnight trips, according to government data.

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Purkiss added about the bins, “It’s a lovely old town. But if you’re disabled, in a wheelchair or in a buggy, you can’t get past sometimes due to the bins.”

People “were sick and tired of coming out of the front door and the first thing they saw was bins outside.”

He said this is true “particularly in the alleys, which are narrow. I know people actually threatened to leave the area, because they were sick and tired of coming out of the front door and the first thing they saw was bins outside.”

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Wrote one person on social media about the proposed fines, “Where else are they [the bins] supposed to go?”

Said another person, “Absolutely normal. Bins are supposed to stay two or three hours in the morning or in the evening.”

Ashley J. DiMella is a lifestyle reporter with Fox News Digital. 

Key West tops spring break destination searches in 17 states across America

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With spring break planning underway, a few destinations are standing out nationwide.

An analysis by travel site Upgraded Points examined search activity over the past year to determine which domestic locations are generating the most interest ahead of the busy vacation period.

The review looked at search trends from January 2025 through January 2026 and identified the top spring break destination in each state.

TOP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS GAINING BUZZ FOR 2026 TRIPS REVEALED IN NEW REPORT

The results point to a strong preference for warm weather beach towns, with several locations consistently topping search interest across multiple states.

Recent search trends highlight the domestic destinations Americans are most curious about ahead of spring break. (iStock)

Key West, Florida, emerged as the most searched domestic spring break destination overall, according to the analysis.

The island city topped search interest in 17 states and Washington, D.C., including Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin.

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Destin, Florida, followed closely behind, leading search interest in 15 states.

The states where Destin generated the highest search interest include Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma and Utah.

Crowded waterfront pier at sunset in Key West, Florida, with tourists gathered by the ocean.

Key West, Florida, was the most-searched domestic spring break destination nationwide. (iStock)

Taken together, the two Florida destinations account for a majority of the top domestic results.

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Outside of Florida, South Padre Island in Texas also drew significant interest, emerging as the most searched destination in five states, including Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming.

Lake Havasu, Arizona, also generated strong search activity, ranking first in Arizona, California and Nevada.

Crowded Miami Beach shoreline with sunbathers and swimmers in front of high-rise hotels and condos.

Outside Florida, South Padre Island topped searches in five states, while Lake Havasu led in Arizona, California and Nevada. (iStock)

Panama City Beach, Florida, and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, rounded out the list, each emerging as a favorite in two states.

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The study also revealed which destinations residents preferred when several in-state options were included.

In Florida, Orlando generated more search interest than coastal destinations such as Key West, Destin and Panama City Beach, suggesting that theme parks and city-based attractions remain strong draws alongside beach vacations.

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In Texas, Galveston outpaced other in-state beach destinations.

Kelly McGreal is a production assistant with the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. 

US forces board Veronica III oil tanker after Trump quarantine evasion

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The Department of War said Sunday that U.S. forces interdicted a vessel in the Indo-Pacific after it attempted to evade a quarantine order issued by the Trump administration.

In a statement on X, the War Department said the Veronica III was boarded without incident while it was operating in the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command area of responsibility.

“The vessel tried to defy President Trump’s quarantine — hoping to slip away. We tracked it from the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean, closed the distance, and shut it down. No other nation has the reach, endurance or will to do this,” the government account wrote.

“International waters are not sanctuary. By land, air or sea, we will find you and deliver justice,” it added. “The Department of War will deny illicit actors and their proxies freedom of movement in the maritime domain.”

US MILITARY SEIZES ANOTHER FUGITIVE OIL TANKER LINKED TO VENEZUELA

U.S. forces conduct a right-of-visit, maritime interdiction and boarding of the Veronica III after the vessel allegedly tried to defy President Trump’s quarantine, Feb. 15, 2026. (X/@DeptofWar)

The Veronica III is the latest in a series of high-profile maritime seizures by the U.S. military aimed at enforcing sanctions and curbing the export of Venezuelan oil.

President Donald Trump announced a blockade of all sanctioned oil tankers going in and out of Venezuela in mid-December, as Washington increased its naval presence in the Caribbean to put pressure on now-former Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro.

According to OpenSanctions, the Veronica III is listed on the U.S. Treasury Department’s Specially Designated Nationals sanctions list.

U.S. forces conducting a maritime interdiction and boarding of the Veronica III vessel at sea.

U.S. forces board the Veronica III in the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command area of responsibility, Feb. 15, 2026. (X/@DeptofWar)

US COAST GUARD PURSUES THIRD ‘DARK FLEET’ OIL TANKER AS TRUMP TARGETS VENEZUELAN SANCTIONS EVASION NETWORK

The tanker, a large crude oil carrier built in 2006 and flagged in Panama, has been linked to the transport of hundreds of thousands of metric tons of sanctioned Iranian oil and is affiliated with a Chinese ship-management company that has also been sanctioned.

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OpenSanctions notes that the ship has previously sailed under different names and flags as part of efforts to evade sanctions and disguise its activities at sea.

The Veronica III was among the vessels sanctioned by Treasury in December 2024 as part of a broader action targeting 35 other entities and tankers involved in transporting illicit Iranian oil to foreign markets.

Ashley Carnahan is a writer at Fox News Digital.

Washington Dulles found to be most expensive US airport at $475, according to new study

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You might be adding hundreds of dollars to the cost of your flight depending on the airport you choose for your travels. 

A recent ranking analyzed U.S. airports based on average domestic airfare — and it revealed major price differences, depending on where travelers begin their journey.

The analysis took airfare data for the 200 busiest airports in the United States and compared average ticket prices across regions and carriers during the first half of 2025. It used data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) and interpreted it to produce an airport ranking. 

THE MOST TURBULENT FLIGHT ROUTES IN THE US FOR AIRLINE PASSENGERS MAY SURPRISE YOU

Bottom line: The Savings.com report noted that “the average U.S. domestic airfare is $391 in 2025, down 1.3% year over year. Adjusted for inflation, flying is actually 36% cheaper now than in 1995.”

Here are the major U.S. airports with the highest and lowest average domestic airfares, according to the report. 

Most expensive major airports

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) ranked as the most expensive major airport in the U.S., according to the analysis.

Travelers forked over an average domestic airfare of about $475 in early 2025, the report said. 

A new report has ranked U.S. airports by average domestic airfare. Find out where yours fell in the new analysis.  (iStock)

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) followed closely behind — with an average domestic airfare of about $461.

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Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) also ranked among the most expensive major U.S. airports, with an average domestic airfare of about $445, per the analysis.

Most affordable major airports

Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL) emerged as the most affordable major U.S. airport.

It had an average domestic airfare of about $281 in early 2025, according to the report.

Interior of a commercial airplane cabin with passengers seated in rows during a flight.

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) topped the list as the priciest major U.S. airport in a new analysis — while Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL) emerged as the most affordable, the study found.  (iStock)

Orlando International Airport (MCO) followed closely behind. 

At that airport, travelers paid an average domestic fare of roughly $289.

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Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) also ranked among the least expensive major airports, with average domestic fares coming in at around $291.

“Not every traveler is so lucky to live near one of the most affordable airports.”

Travelers who are flexible with departing locations may find cheaper fares by departing from smaller, secondary airports instead of major hubs, the data indicates. 

Among the nation’s most affordable departure points overall, St. Petersburg–Clearwater (PIE), Orlando Sanford (SFB) and Punta Gorda (PGD) topped the list — each posting average fares well below $150.

Commercial passenger airplane parked at an airport gate, viewed through terminal windows with runway and mountains in the background.

Flying out of smaller airports may be cheaper than leaving from major hubs, the analysis said. But that’s assuming consumers can be flexible with their choices.  (iStock)

MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV) and Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK) rounded out the top five, with all five airports served primarily by ultra-low-cost carriers such as Allegiant and Sun Country.

The report noted that “not every traveler is so lucky to live near one of the most affordable airports.”

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It added that “some smaller markets — particularly resort destinations and mountain towns — command some of the nation’s highest fares, thanks to limited airline competition and seasonal demand.”

The report also shared a key caveat.

Travelers at Houston airport wait in long lines

“Not all airports serve the same destinations, and differences in travel time and parking fees should be considered when deciding which airport to depart from,” the report noted.  (Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

“Even within the same metro area, airfare costs can vary dramatically depending on which airport you choose. For travelers in multi-airport regions, those differences can translate into serious savings. Of course, not all airports serve the same destinations, and differences in travel time and parking fees should be considered when deciding which airport to depart from.”

Using fare alerts, booking several weeks in advance and paying close attention to baggage fees on budget airlines can help maximize savings, the analysis found.

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Meanwhile, the federal government has entered its third partial shutdown of the last half-year after Congress failed to reach an agreement on all 12 of its annual spending bills.

Disruptions to the TSA, whose agents are responsible for security checks at nearly 440 airports across the country, could perhaps be the most impactful part of the partial shutdown on Americans’ everyday lives, Fox News Digital has reported. 

Elizabeth Elkind of Fox News Digital contributed reporting. 

Kelly McGreal is a production assistant with the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. 

Amtrak rolls out new Airo trains this summer across multiple routes

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Amtrak is rolling out a new fleet of passenger trains this summer, replacing rail cars that in some cases have been in service for nearly 50 years.

The new trains, known as Airo, are part of an $8 billion order for 83 trains built by Siemens in California, and mark the largest fleet replacement since Amtrak was founded in 1971, according to multiple reports.

“These trains represent the next step in Amtrak’s modernization of our entire fleet,” Amtrak President Roger Harris said at an event introducing the fleet. “They are made right here, in America by America for Americans,” he added.

POPULAR CRUISE COMPANY ABRUPTLY SHUTS DOWN, DISRUPTING UPCOMING VACATIONS

The overhaul comes amid record ridership for Amtrak, with 34.5 million passenger trips in 2025, the company announced late last year. The new trains are intended to modernize service across several major corridors, beginning with the Pacific Northwest.

The first Airo trains will debut on the Amtrak Cascades route in the Pacific Northwest before expanding to additional corridors. (Amtrak)

The first Airo trains are expected to enter service this summer on the Amtrak Cascades route, which runs between Seattle; Portland, Oregon; Vancouver, British Columbia; and Eugene, Oregon. Eight trainsets are slated for the Cascades. 

Additional Airo trains will eventually operate on East Coast routes, including the busy Northeast Regional line, with testing expected to begin later this year and passenger service projected for 2027.

‘SECURITY-RELATED SITUATION’ GROUNDS FLIGHT TO VACATION HOT SPOT, PASSENGERS CONFINED FOR HOURS

For travelers, the most noticeable changes will be inside the cars.

Inside of new Airo trains from Amtrak, showing food trays and cushioned seats.

Instead of reclining backward, the new seats shift forward as they adjust — a design that has received mixed early reviews. (Amtrak)

The redesigned interiors feature larger windows, brighter lighting and overhead digital screens displaying route information. Each seat will include a standard power outlet and USB-C port, along with individual reading lights, adjustable headrests and larger tray tables, according to a news release.

In coach, seats are arranged two on each side of the aisle, while business class features a two-and-one layout with wider seats and more legroom.

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Instead of reclining backward in the traditional sense, the new seats slide forward as they change angle, a design that has drawn mixed reactions from some early reviewers.

“Unfortunately, rather than recline, the bottom of the seats slide forward similar to those on the NextGen Acela trains,” a review by The Points Guy noted. “This results in less legroom when ‘reclined,’ and some taller travelers may find it uncomfortable.”

Inside of new Amtrak Airo trains, and the digital screens that will show route information.

The redesigned interiors feature larger windows, brighter lighting and digital route information screens. (Amtrak)

“The thing that I was disappointed about but then sort of reassured about is the recline on the seats,” rail and transit content creator Alan Fisher said in a YouTube video after touring the train.

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Fisher also highlighted the expanded overhead storage. “We were surprised we had to argue for … overhead bin space,” he said.

Accessibility upgrades are another major component of the redesign. The trains will include built-in motorized wheelchair lifts, wider aisles in select cars, accessible café cars and restrooms large enough for wheelchair users to turn around.

Woman with suitcase prepares to board an Amtrak train on November 12, 2025 in Austin, Texas.

The Airo fleet represents the largest train replacement program since Amtrak was founded in 1971. (Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

The trains will continue to operate at speeds up to 125 mph, meaning they are not classified as high-speed rail. However, Amtrak officials say certain routes could see time savings because the new locomotives can transition between diesel and electric power without requiring engine changes.

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The new fleet is designed to expand capacity, however. On the Cascades route, each Airo train will seat up to 300 passengers, compared with roughly 168 seats on current equipment, according to reports.

Amtrak has not announced any fare increases connected to the Airo fleet rollout, but some customers worry that the new, higher-end look and amenities could mean it will be more expensive, according to TheTravel.com.

Travelers walk on platform to board a Northeast Regional Amtrak train bound for New York, at Union Station, on night of January 13, 2026 in Washington, DC.

Amtrak’s new Airo trains are set to begin service this summer. (Al Drago/Getty Images)

“Looking at the size and room given for those seats along with the upscale appearance, the trip cost would have to be high for the train to cover its costs,” one internet user speculated.

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A portion of the funding for the new fleet comes from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Amtrak has said.

The rollout follows Amtrak’s debut of its NextGen Acela trains on the Northeast Corridor in 2025, reflecting a broader effort to modernize aging equipment across its national network.

Deirdre Bardolf is a lifestyle writer with Fox News Digital.

Fans show support after ‘Quad God’ Ilia Malinin’s vulnerable social media posts

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Fans are concerned after it was revealed that videos with vulnerable messages were reposted by “Quad God” Ilia Malinin on TikTok.

The 21-year-old had a clear path to win the men’s singles skating gold medal on Friday night, but after falling twice, he settled for eighth place.

Malinin was blunt about his performance when speaking to NBC afterward, saying simply, “I blew it,” and it was a clear mental hurdle from start to finish.

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Ilia Malinin of Team United States falls during the Men’s Single Skating on day seven of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games at Milano Ice Skating Arena on Feb. 13, 2026, in Milan, Italy. (Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Afterward, Malinin reposted several TikToks, including one with the message, “Sometimes I wish something bad would just happen to me so I don’t have to do it myself.”

Another video had the message, “Your little boy is tired mom.”

Malinin also shared posts from “Healing Letters,” an account that writes messages in a book. One said, “When I get home and step into my room and my eyes start watering because no one knows how hard I’m truly trying.”

Another one said, “Nothing hurts more than trying your best and still not being good enough,” and the book was slammed shut.

U.S. Figure Skating did not immediately respond to a request for comment, as fans showed plenty of concern and support throughout the comments.

“YOU DID SO WELL ILIA, YOU ARE INCREDIBLE!!!!! I LOVE YOU,” one user wrote.

“Ilia 🙁 I Hope he is okay…” added another.

“You are still a champion, Ilia Malinin One result doesn’t define your talent or your strength. We’re proud of you no matter what place you take. Keep going – your time to shine is always ahead. You are the best,” one more said.

Ilia Malinin crying

Ilia Malinin of the United States reacts to his disastrous routine, in which he fell twice, during the Figure Skating, Men’s Singles Skating-Free Skating competition at the Milano Ice Skating Arena at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympic Games 2026 on Feb. 13, 2026, in Milan, Italy. (Tim Clayton/Getty Images)

‘QUAD GOD’ ILIA MALININ FALLS TWICE, FINISHES EIGHTH AFTER SHOCKING PERFORMANCE

Malinin admitted his mind was pretty cluttered as he took the ice.

“I just had so many thoughts and memories flood right before I got into my starting pose, and almost, I think, it maybe overwhelmed me a little bit. I’ve been through a lot in my life, a lot of bad and good experiences,” Malinin said to reporters. “So, I just feel like it’s the pressure of especially being that Olympic gold medal hopeful. It was just something I can’t control now.”

“The pressure of the Olympics, it’s really something different, and I think not a lot of people understand that. They only understand that from the inside and going into this competition, especially today, I felt really confident, really good,” he added. “But it really just went by so fast I did not have time to process.” 

When his routine started Friday, Malinin connected on a quad flip to start but then settled for a single axel. He then had a double loop instead of a quad loop. He fell on a quad Lutz attempt and then fell on another jump shortly after. He scored 156.33 points, a far cry from the world record of 238.24 he set in December and the 200-point mark he routinely hits in the free skate.

Ilia Malinin off ice

Ilia Malinin of Team United States leaves the ice after competing in the Men Single Skating on day seven of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games at Milano Ice Skating Arena on Feb. 13, 2026, in Milan, Italy. (Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

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Mikhail Shaidorov of Kazakhstan won the gold with a total score of 291.58, a personal best. His score of 198.94 in Friday’s free skate was also the highest of his career. Yuma Kagiyama of Japan got the silver, and Shun Sato, Kagiyama’s teammate, came away with the bronze.

Malinin, who posts total scores in the 300s regularly, settled for just 264.49 points. His personal best is 333.81.

Fox News’ Jackson Thompson contributed to this report.

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Popular cruise company abruptly closes, with customer vacation plans up in the air

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A beloved cruise line has abruptly shut down and canceled all future bookings.

Alaskan Dream Cruises announced Feb. 4 that it would halt all operations — disrupting upcoming vacation plans.

The small-ship cruise line, which was based in Sitka and offered sailings to Southeast Alaska, said guests who had booked reservations would receive refunds and information on next steps in an email.

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“Our guests are being fully refunded any deposits or payments they’ve made, but we sincerely hope they choose to visit our state with another company if they’re able,” Zak Kirkpatrick, a company spokesperson, told Fox News Digital.

“Guests were offered a transfer program with UnCruise Adventures, which is another well-established small ship expedition line,” he also said. 

Alaskan Dream Cruises shocked travelers when the line announced it would be ceasing operations. (James D. Morgan)

The parent company will continue to operate but will shift its priorities, it said. 

“Alaskan Dream Cruises has made a strategic decision to conclude operations of its Alaska Native-owned, Sitka-based small-ship cruise line, effective Feb. 4, 2026,” the company said in a statement.

LUXURY CRUISE LINE GOES ‘ADULTS ONLY’ TO CREATE MORE ‘TRANQUIL ENVIRONMENT’ FOR GUESTS

“This decision reflects a deliberate realignment of the company’s business focus to strengthen its core operations and ensure long-term sustainability,” the statement continued.

Alaska Dream Cruises has no current voyages scheduled, as the ships typically sail from May through September.

Popular cruise line closes its doors

Alaskan Dream Cruises consistently received stellar reviews from travelers. (Hasan Akbas/Anadolu)

The company’s fleet of 10- to 76-guest vessels was considered unusual because it was a more intimate experience. 

Focusing on Alaskan heritage, the voyages would navigate remote fjords and narrow channels inaccessible to large ships.

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“This decision was intentional and necessary,” owner Jamey Cagle said in the statement.

“After careful evaluation of our long-term objectives, we determined that concluding cruise operations allows us to responsibly focus our resources where they will have the greatest impact.”

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The company had a 4.7 rating on Google Reviews. Yet the cruise ship operator — owned by a family from the Tlingit tribe and founders of the Sitka-based maritime business Allen Marine — faced an increasingly competitive cruise industry.

Beloved cruise line shuts down

“Our guests are being fully refunded,” said a spokesperson from the company.  (John McDonnell/The Washington Post)

“Alaskan Dream Cruises certainly faced a unique set of challenges as a cruise line based in Sitka, Alaska— there are high overheads in the industry, and it’s a well-capitalized landscape,” said Kirkpatrick, the company spokesperson. 

“However, the current demand for visiting Alaska is a very good thing for our region and state.”

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The global cruise industry reported a record 37.7 million passengers in 2025, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) 2025 report. But even large cruise operators felt a financial crunch in 2025.

“Alaskan Dream Cruises certainly faced a unique set of challenges.”

Some of the challenges in the industry were rising fuel and labor costs and higher port fees, according to Caribbean News Digital.

Fans of the company flocked to Facebook to recount their voyages.

A Carnival cruise ship

A Carnival cruise ship departs in Miami. The global cruise industry reported a record 37.7 million passengers in 2025, according to the Cruise Lines International Association.  (iStock)

“I want to say that this is truly a loss for Alaska tourism,” one traveler wrote on Facebook. “The trip we took in 2024 was truly the best vacation we have ever had.”

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Another person commented, “This makes me incredibly sad. Our cruise with you was one of our best vacations, and we have referred many to you since we did our cruise in 2021.”

Alaskan Dream Cruises Shuts Down in 2026

Previous passengers of the cruise line flocked to Facebook to praise the company. (Hasan Akbas/Anadolu)

“So sad to hear … They have always been a great alternative to large ship cruising,” a traveler wrote on a CruiseCritic message board. 

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Another agreed, saying, “So heartbreaking. They were such an amazing outfit. I’m sure it was just so difficult competing against the giants.”

Jessica Mekles is an editor on the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. 

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