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Thirteen dead, dozens missing in Nigeria boat accident
Authorities said that 13 people have been confirmed dead and dozens missing after a boat carrying around 100 passengers capsized in Niger State, north-central Nigeria on Saturday as it was heading to the market. Yusuf Lemu is an official with the Niger State Emergency Management Agency. He said that 26 people, mainly women and children, had been rescued. Local official Isiyaku Acilu stated that the boat driver who was among the rescued passengers, couldn't confirm the number on board. Akilu said that the exact cause of this accident has yet to be determined. However, from all indications it appears to have been caused by overloading. Adamu Ahmad, who is a member of a boat driver's union, confirmed the boat was overloaded. He said that it was a wooden boat of a large size and there are efforts being made to recover additional bodies. Boat accidents are a common occurrence in Niger State, which is home to three of Nigeria's major hydroelectric dams. The accident on Saturday happened nine months after the boat capsized, killing at least 60 people. It was a boat with mostly women and kids returning from a religious event. Akilu said that the rescue efforts were temporarily halted on Sunday, to allow the custodians of the river perform rituals to ensure "a hitch-free mission".
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Bangladesh orders 25 Boeing aircraft as part of a push to reduce US tariffs
A senior official revealed on Sunday that Bangladesh had ordered 25 Boeing aircraft and increased imports of important American goods to ease trade tensions. The goal was to reduce the high tariffs levied by the Trump Administration. The move is part of a larger strategy to reduce a $6 billion U.S. Trade deficit with Bangladesh, and avoid an upcoming 35% tariff increase that has shaken the country's Export Sector. Mahbubur Rahman, Commerce Secretary told reporters that "we need new aircraft urgently. It could be within the next two years." He said that initially, the plan was to buy 14 aircraft, but now, it is 25. Bangladesh has also increased its imports of soybean oil, cotton, and wheat from the United States. The country will import 700,000 tonnes U.S. Wheat annually for the next five year under a new agreement signed this month. These steps are intended to improve the trade relationship with Washington, and lessen the impact of Trump's tariffs.
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US business delegation visiting China, SCMP reports
The South China Morning Post reported Sunday that a high-level delegation of the U.S. China Business Council would visit China this coming week. They are expected to meet with senior Chinese officials. Reports indicate that the delegation will include Boeing executives, USCBC President Sean Stein and FedEx Chief Executive Rajesh Subramaniam. Could not verify immediately the report. A source told SCMP that "they are expected to meet Chinese officials, possibly to revive business talks". The SCMP reported that both sides were working on securing a visit by the U.S. President to China this year. The council didn't respond to the request for a comment immediately. The visit coincides the latest round U.S. - China trade negotiations, which are taking place in Sweden from July 27-30. Vice Premier He Lifeng of China will be meeting with U.S. officials for a fresh round of economic and trading talks. China has until August 12 to come up with a lasting deal with the White House, or face higher U.S. Tariffs.
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Last minutes of Jeju Air flight prior to South Korea's worst air disaster
South Korea is investigating a crash that occurred on December 29, at Muan Airport, resulting in the death of 179 people. This was the worst air disaster to ever occur on South Korean soil. Following are the last minutes of Flight 7C2216, gathered from South Korea's Transport Ministry and Fire Authorities, as well as a July 19, update from investigators. All times are Korea Standard Time. 8:54.43 am - Jeju Air 7C2216 contacts Muan Airport air traffic control during its final approach. It is cleared to land on the runway 01 which is oriented 10 degrees north east. 8:57.50 am - Air traffic Control issues "caution-bird activity" warning. 8:58.11 a.m.: Jeju Air's pilots mention spotting birds below the aircraft. 8:58.26 am - The aircraft aborts its landing attempt, then hits birds as it circles back to make another landing. This is known as a "go-around". Both engines were still vibrating. The right engine was also experiencing a surge that produced large flames and black smoke. 8:58.45 am - The left engine is stopped by the pilots while they are performing emergency procedures. According to the July 19 update, the cockpit voice recording (CVR), the flight data recorder(FDR), and an inspection of the engine were the proof. 8:58.50 am - The FDR and CVR of the aircraft stop recording. The aircraft's "black boxes" are no longer recording at this time. It is currently flying at 161 knots (185 mph or 298 kph) and at 498 feet (152 meters). 8:58.56 a.m.: Flight 7C2216's pilot declares an emergency Mayday due to a bird striking during a go-around. Flight 7C2216, during the go-around request clearance to land at runway 19, the opposite end of airport's one runway. 9:01 am - Air Traffic Control authorizes landing on runway 19. Flight 7C2216 contacts the runway at 9:02 am, approximately 1,200 meters (3,937 feet) from the end of the 2,800-meter (9,186-foot) runway. The landing gear was not lowered, and the plane lands flat on its back. 9:02 a.m.: Air traffic control sounds the "crashbell" to alert airport fire rescue. 9:02:55 a.m. - Airport fire rescue unit completes deploying fire rescue equipment. 9:02:57 am - Flight 7C2216 crashes after it overshot the runway. Airport authorities report an accident to the Transport Ministry at 9:10 am. 9:23 am - A male was rescued and taken to a temporary facility for medical treatment. Closed airport at 9:38 am. 9:50 am - A second person is rescued from the tail section of an aircraft. Reporting by Jihoon, Lee, Hyunjoo, Jin, Ju-min, Park, Hyonhee, and Lisa Barrington. Writing by Jack Kim. Editing by Stephen Coates, Jamie Freed, and Jamie Freed.
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Investigation update: Jeju Air jet had a functioning engine at the time of its crash.
According to a new update by South Korean investigators, a Jeju Air aircraft that crashed during an emergency landing in December after a bird struck could have continued flying on the damaged but still functioning engine after the pilots had shut down the other. The Boeing 737-800 belly-landed on Muan Airport without its landing gear, overshot runway, and erupted in a fireball, after slamming against an embankment. All but two of 181 passengers were killed. Although the investigators haven't yet released a final report on the worst air disaster to hit South Korea, information has started to surface about the planes' two engines. According to an update from investigators dated July 19, which was seen but not released publicly following complaints by victims' families, the left motor suffered less damage than the other after a bird struck, but it was shut down only 19 seconds later. In a five-page report, investigators confirmed that the right engine had generated enough power to fly. The update also included photos of both engines after the crash. The crew did not give a reason for their actions and it is expected that the investigation will last several months, as investigators reconstruct both the technical state of the plane and what its pilots understood. Experts warn against placing too much emphasis on incomplete evidence. They say that most air accidents can be attributed to multiple factors. More Questions The public has so far focused its attention on the possibility that crew members may have accidentally shut down a less-damaged aircraft engine. This brought back memories of a 1989 Boeing 737-405 crash in Kegworth (England) where pilots mistakenly shut down a nondamaged aircraft engine. Multiple changes were made to the regulations in response to this disaster, including improved crew communication and emergency procedures. Sources told reporters on Monday that South Korea's investigation had "clear proof" that pilots shut off the left engine that was less damaged after the bird struck. They cited the cockpit voice recording, computer data, and a switch that had been found in the wreckage. The latest information on the crash raises the possibility, however, that the heavily damaged engine still running may have been able to keep the plane in the air for longer. The report did not specify what level of performance was left in the engine, or what additional options it might have provided to the emergency crew of the jet before it reverted back and landed with its landing gear raised on the opposite side of the runway than its original plan. Both engines had bird strike damage, and both engines experienced vibrations following the strike. The Korean-language update of South Korea's Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board, ARAIB, said that the right engine had significant internal damage. However, it did not mention the damage found in left engine. When shown the document, former U.S. National Transportation Safety Board Investigator Greg Feith said that the update didn't say how the left motor was operating or the state of the systems connected to either engines. He said that the document contains a few new facts, but leaves out many more. This results in a "cryptic", or confusing, document. ARAIB did not respond immediately to a comment request. The ARAIB plans to release a final report in June next year. Experts in safety say that it's common for early reports of investigations to have sparse information and limited analysis. In a preliminary report published in January, it was reported that feathers and bloodstains from ducks had been found in both engines. The report stated that the engines, made by CFM International and jointly owned by GE France and Safran, were examined in May. No defects or fault data was found, other than bird and crash damages. The families of those killed in the accident were informed about the findings regarding the engines, but they asked that the investigators refrain from releasing the report dated July 19, claiming it seemed to assign blame to the pilots while ignoring other factors. South Korean media received copies of the report despite it being withheld. Boeing and GE referred all questions regarding the crash to ARAIB. Safran didn't immediately respond to an inquiry for comment. Jeju Air previously stated that it was cooperating with ARAIB, and is awaiting the publication of its investigation. Civil air investigations are conducted in accordance with international aviation regulations to determine the causes of crashes without blaming or putting anyone at fault. The Jeju Air Pilots' Union said ARAIB "misled the public" when it suggested that there was no issue with the left motor, given that bird feces were found in both. Sources who attended the briefing said that investigators informed family members of the black box data indicating the left engine experienced a "surge" as well. The pilot union, as well as representatives of bereaved family members, have requested that any evidence supporting findings be made public. Safety experts say that the embankment with navigation equipment is likely to have contributed to the high death rate. According to global aviation standards, any navigation equipment installed along runways must be mounted on structures that are easily deformable in the event of an impact with an airplane. The South Korean transport ministry identified seven airports in the country, including Muan Airport, that have structures made from concrete or steel rather than materials which break apart when struck, and said they will be improved. A ministry official said last week that the designs for new structures were in progress.
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First passenger flight between Moscow and Pyongyang in many decades
Russian authorities announced that on Sunday, Russia would launch direct passenger flights between Moscow and Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea. The two former allies are working to improve their ties after Russia's invasion in Ukraine in 2022. According to Russian aviation blogs the start of regular flight service between the capitals is the first since the mid-1990s. This follows the return of passenger rail services from Moscow to Pyongyang, a 10 day journey, which resumed in June. According to the airport timetable, the first flight leaves Sheremetyevo Airport at 7 pm (1600 GMT). RIA, the Russian state news agency, announced on Sunday that a Boeing 777 200ER aircraft with a seating capacity of 440 people will operate the eight-hour flight. Tickets started at 44.700 roubles (about $563) and the first flight was quickly sold out. Rosaviatsia, the Russian civil aviation authority, has given Nordwind Airlines permission for flights to be operated between Moscow and Pyongyang two times a week. In a press release, the transport ministry stated that flights will be operated once a week for now "to build stable demand". Air Koryo, a North Korean airline, has flown to Vladivostok three times per week in Russia's Far East. Ukraine and its Western Allies accuse North Korea of supplying Russia artillery and missiles. Both Moscow and Pyongyang have denied the accusations. Pyongyang has sent more than 10,000 troops, weapons and other equipment to Russia in support of Moscow's military operation in Ukraine. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un stated this month that his country is ready to "unconditionally" support Moscow's efforts in Ukraine.
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Russia claims that Volgograd's railway power supply was disrupted following the drone attack by Ukraine.
The Volgograd administration said that falling debris from destroyed Ukrainian drones has disrupted rail power supply in a part of the Volgograd Region. The administration, citing Governor Andrei Bocharov, said that there were no injuries in the attack by the Ukrainians. Rosaviatsia, the Russian civil aviation authority, announced on Telegram on Sunday that flights had been suspended at the airport of Volgograd. Volgograd is the administrative center of the Volgograd Region. It was not immediately apparent the extent of damage or the scale of this attack. According to Telegram posts from regional officials, air raid alerts have been issued in other areas of Russia's west, south and east, warnings about a Ukrainian drone strike.
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Union Pacific closes deal to buy Norfolk Southern, Bloomberg reports
Bloomberg News, Friday's report, citing sources familiar with the situation, reported that Union Pacific, America's largest railroad operator, may reach an agreement early next week to buy rival Norfolk Southern. Union Pacific announced on Thursday that it was in advanced discussions to acquire its competitor, signaling a possible deal to create a $200 billion coast to coast rail company. This could trigger further consolidation of remaining freight rail giants. Union Pacific refused to comment while Norfolk Southern didn't immediately respond to an inquiry for comment. The merger, which would represent the largest ever buyout of the sector, would Create your own The first modern single-line West-to East freight railroad in the United States has a significant impact on how goods are transported across the country, from grains to chemicals and autos. Many in the rail industry, as well as Wall Street, were surprised that the talks have advanced. The U.S. freight railway system is already divided into two regional duopolies based on the point of origin. The talks reveal how the thinking on antitrust issues changed under the Trump administration. His executive orders were aimed at removing barriers to competition and opening up the door for potential megamergers. The deal, if completed, would combine Union Pacific’s dominant position in western two-thirds U.S. states with Norfolk Southern’s 19,500-miles network that spans 22 eastern states. According to LSEG, Union Pacific has a value of approximately $138 billion. The company is struggling with low automotive volumes, volatile coal shipments and power producers switching to natural gas via pipeline. Norfolk Southern is valued at $63 billion and is coming out of a turbulent time that saw the removal of its former CEO in the wake an ethics investigation, a high profile boardroom conflict with activist investor Ancora and a costly derailment train that cost the company $1.4 billion.
S.African Transnet receives new government guarantees worth more than $5 billion
The transport ministry announced on Sunday that the South African government will provide Transnet with an additional 94.8 billion Rand ($5.34 billion), as a guarantee facility, to help the state-owned logistics company's recovery plans.
The facility is on top of the 51 billion rand guarantee that the government announced in May for Transnet. This includes 41 billion rand for the company's financing needs for the financial years 2025/26, 2026/27, and 10 billion for debt service and capital investment.
In a statement, the ministry stated that the new guarantee includes 48,6 billion rand for all debt redemptions in the next five-year period, as well as an additional 46,2 billion rand against any further credit rating actions.
Transnet's turnaround strategy is supported by the government. It aims to return freight rail volumes to 250 millions metric tons annually at the end of this period. These volumes dropped to 152 millions metric tonnes in the 2023/24 fiscal year from a high of 226,000,000 metric tons during 2017/18.
Transnet is unable to provide reliable rail freight and port services because of equipment shortages and maintenance delays after years underinvestment. The widespread theft of cables and vandalism has further restricted its capacity.
Andile Sangqu, the company's chairperson, said that the debt of the company had risen from 138 to 145 billion Rands at the end 2023/24 year. The company's loss increased to 7.3 billion Rand in 2023/24 from 5.7 billion Rand the previous financial year.
Transnet's problems have cost mineral producers, primarily coal and ore producers, billions of rands in lost revenue. Transnet's freight volume is dominated by these exporters, who account for 70% of its total.
A lack of rail capacity has forced most South African chrome exports to reach the ports via road. This increases costs and damages roads as well as the environment.
(source: Reuters)