Urban Air Mobility Push: The U.S. FAA says it’s working to speed certification and rules for air taxis, supersonic aircraft, drones and space launches, using an eVTOL pilot program with partners to get new tech into service safely. Electric Aviation Supply Chain: VÆRIDION picked Drive System Design to develop and test the Microliner’s electric propeller drive system ahead of first flight and certification. Hydrogen-Electric Defense Aviation: ZeroAvia and Marshall Aerospace plan to adapt hydrogen-electric propulsion for defense platforms, focusing on storage, integration, safety and certification. Airport & Route Growth: Hong Kong International Airport reported H1 passenger up 11.7% and cargo up 4.1%, keeping its major cargo-hub status. Aviation Disruption & Safety: Alaska’s Supreme Court fight over confiscating a pilot’s plane for a “visible six-pack” highlights how small air cargo rules can become major legal risk. Middle East Shipping Shock: Yemen’s Houthis announced a maritime embargo targeting Saudi shipping at Bab el-Mandeb, a key Red Sea chokepoint for global trade. Disaster Response: Afghanistan flash floods in Nuristan killed 23, injured 80 and left 100+ missing, with more extreme weather forecast. Infrastructure & Trade: The UAE expects to finalize 5–7 CEPAs this year and says 37 are already signed, while Tanzania is positioning Kigoma as a logistics gateway via rail, port and airport upgrades. Public Transit Pressure: Philippines transport group Manibela plans a two-day strike over diesel/kerosene price hikes and stalled fare relief. Cross-Border Charter Expansion: BusBank and BusCharter.com.au partner to expand charter bus coverage across the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.