Top News Summary

The Federal Aviation Administration, or FAA, is moving to cut flights by 10% at major airports across the United States due to the ongoing government shutdown. This unprecedented order is set to affect 40 airports, including major hubs like Atlanta, Dallas, and Los Angeles, as air traffic controllers, who have been working without pay, face increasing pressure and exhaustion. According to NPR, airlines began canceling flights in anticipation of the FAA's order, with Delta Air Lines scrapping approximately 170 flights and American Airlines planning to cut around 220 daily through the weekend. The FAA noted that the reductions, which will start at 4% and increase to 10% by November 14th, are necessary to alleviate strain on air traffic controllers. This decision comes during a busy travel period, raising fears of significant delays and cancellations for travelers.

In another significant development, Boeing has been spared from facing criminal charges related to the deadly crashes of its 737 Max jetliners that resulted in 346 fatalities. A federal judge in Texas approved a settlement that requires Boeing to pay or invest an additional $1.1 billion in fines and compensation for victims' families, as reported by NPR. The ruling allows Boeing to select its own compliance consultant, which has raised concerns about accountability within the company. The Justice Department had expressed that pursuing a jury trial could potentially let Boeing avoid further punishment. Critics, including victims' families, are voicing their disappointment, emphasizing that the deal does not ensure adequate accountability for the safety of the flying public.

On the corporate landscape, Tesla shareholders have approved a massive pay package for CEO Elon Musk, potentially worth up to $1 trillion over the next decade. CBS News details that this package has faced criticism from prominent investors but is viewed by some analysts as necessary to keep Musk committed to the company during challenging times. The approval comes amid concerns for Tesla's sales, which have suffered due to Musk's previous administrative roles that negatively impacted the brand's image. If Tesla meets its ambitious performance goals, Musk could become the world's first trillionaire.

Kazakhstan's decision to join the Abraham Accords marks a significant diplomatic move, enhancing relations between Israel and Muslim-majority countries. CBS News reports that this step is largely symbolic, given Kazakhstan's long-standing diplomatic ties with Israel since 1992. Former President Trump hailed this move as a major step forward and suggested that more countries might follow Kazakhstan's lead, further strengthening partnerships across the region.

Lastly, a Rhode Island judge has ordered the Trump administration to ensure full funding for SNAP benefits for November, highlighting the intersection of government operations and food security amid the shutdown. The judge criticized the delay in funding, noting that without it, millions of children could face hunger. This ruling comes as the administration faces backlash for allegedly withholding benefits for political reasons, with Vice President JD Vance calling the judge's order 'absurd.' The outcome of this case underscores the critical importance of government support for food assistance programs during periods of disruption.