COOL YOUR JETS: Feds reject expansion of Toronto’s Billy Bishop airport
The federal government has rejected Ontario’s plan to expand Toronto’s Billy Bishop airport to accommodate jets on a longer runway. Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon said public consultations on the future of the island airport got feedback on a range of issues including transportation, noise, environmental impacts and quality of life. The government received more than 87,000 responses, he said.
THEIR CUP RUNNETH OVER: The world visited the U.S., and Americans liked it
New U.S. Travel Association polling shows the FIFA World Cup tournament underscored that a majority of Americans recognize the unique role international tourism plays in strengthening America’s image and building global allies.
WESTJET OFFERS CHANGE OPTION IN CASE OF STRIKE
WestJet is offering customers set to fly ahead of a possible strike by the airline’s flight attendants this summer a chance to make one-time changes to their bookings without fees. The airline says the flexible travel policy applies to those planning to travel between July 30 and Aug. 4.
IATA NAMES FIRST WOMAN DIRECTOR GENERAL
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that Saadia Zahidi has been appointed by IATA’s Board of Directors to the position of Director General starting Nov. 1. She will be IATA’s ninth Director General and the first woman appointed to hold the position.
SUNWING INTRODUCES PREMIUM CABIN OPTION
Designed for guests looking to elevate their journey, Sunwing Vacations is introducing premium cabin on eligible seven-night vacation packages. Available for departures beginning Oct. 1, premium cabin offers enhanced amenities and services in a dedicated cabin at the front of the aircraft.
LAST WEEK THIS MORNING: July20-24, 2026
A round-up of news nuggets, airlines, hotels/resorts, cruising, tours, events, FAMS/incentives, deals, destinations and more are covered in our weekly round-up of travel industry news you may have missed.
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Just in case you missed yesterday’s stories…
NEW THREAT COULD WIDEN WAR, SPIKE OIL PRICES
Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels said they attacked two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea on Thursday, potentially widening the Iran war as international oil topped $100 a barrel.
FINAL DOMINO TO FALL: Air Canada settles with its last major union
Air Canada says workers in its technical operations, maintenance and operational support group have ratified their new contract. The airline says it now has new collective agreements with all of its major unions following the expiration of the previous long-term contracts.
STIFF, SWOLLEN AND SORE: Tips to reduce air travel’s three R’s
With summer travel and long-haul flights picking up, many passengers are preparing for airport delays, packed cabins, and hours in cramped seats. But one travel issue often gets ignored until arrival: aching legs, stiff hips, swollen feet, and post-flight soreness.
MINI MOZARTS HELP SALZBURG SHINE – WHIILE THEY LAST
Visitors to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s hometown can see the composer – and his dog – in miniature as Salzburg celebrates the 270th anniversary of his birth. But they shouldn’t wait too long, as the statues are already being swiped.
LOW WATER TURNS RIVERS CRUISES INTO ADVENTURES
By WALLACE IMMEN/ Soaring temperatures and drought in Europe are forcing cruise lines to adapt, with what some guests are calling “magical mystery cruises.” While the worst of the heat wave appears to be subsiding, an extended drought and wildfires are forcing changes in itineraries and excursions.
LISTENING IN: Sex and drugs and ice cream, David Lee Roth guaranteed to satisfy
By MICHAEL BAGINSKI/ Last Sunday (July 19) was national ice cream day – hope you had a cone or two to celebrate the “holiday.” The occasion brought to mind the cool Van Halen song, “Ice Cream Man,” a rocked-up version of a tune written and originally recorded by the Chicago blues musician John Brim in 1953.