Category: News

Hooters, a sports bar known for its chicken wings and scantily clad waitresses, is in financial trouble.

The restaurant’s parent company, Hooters of America, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on March 31, 2025.

The company is using this process to restructure its $376 million debt and has plans to sell its 151 company-owned restaurants to a franchise group backed by its original founders.

While the bankruptcy process unfolds, Hooters intends to keep its restaurants operational, expecting to complete the deal and emerge from bankruptcy in three to four months with $35 million in financing from its existing lenders.

“With over 30 years of hands-on experience across the Hooters ecosystem, we have a profound understanding of our customers and what it takes to not only meet, but consistently exceed their expectations,” said Neil Kiefer, CEO of Hooters Inc., on behalf of the Buyer Group. “As we look toward the future, we are committed to restoring the Hooters brand back to its roots and simplifying HOA’s operations by adopting a pure franchise model that will maximize the potential for sustainable, long-term growth.”

Is Hooters Closing Any U.S. Locations?

No specific announcements have been made about permanent closures tied to this filing. However, the situation could evolve depending on the outcome of the sale and financial restructuring.

The bankruptcy filing follows months of speculation and preparations reported earlier this year, driven by challenges like declining foot traffic, rising costs, and a significant debt load, including $300 million in asset-backed bonds from 2021.

What Is the History of Hooters?

Hooters, the restaurant chain known for its casual dining and sports bar atmosphere, was founded on October 4, 1983, in Clearwater, Florida.

The concept was the brainchild of six businessmen: Lynn D. Stewart, Gil DiGiannantonio, Ed Droste, Billy Ranieri, Ken Wimmer, and Dennis Johnson.

The group aimed to create a place where they could enjoy good food, cold beer, and a fun, laid-back vibe—essentially, a spot they’d want to hang out at themselves.

The name “Hooters” came from a mix of playful inspiration and branding savvy. It’s a nod to the owl logo (with “hooters” being slang for an owl’s call) and a cheeky wink at the chain’s focus on attractive, scantily clad waitresses—later dubbed “Hooters Girls.”

The founders reportedly tossed around hundreds of name ideas before settling on this one, knowing it would stick in people’s minds. They weren’t wrong.

The first Hooters opened its doors with a simple menu: wings, burgers, sandwiches, and seafood, paired with a beachy, Florida vibe.

The wings, in particular, became a signature item, served with a variety of sauces that remain a draw today. The original location was a modest spot, but it quickly gained traction, fueled by its unapologetic blend of sex appeal and comfort food.

The founders had no grand franchise plans at first—they just wanted a successful local joint—but the concept took off.

By 1984, the chain started expanding through franchising, with new locations popping up across the U.S. The Hooters Girls became central to the brand, wearing the now-iconic uniform of white tank tops and orange shorts.

The chain peaked in the U.S. with over 400 locations by the early 2000s, though it’s since scaled back to around 300 domestically as of recent years.

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Atlanta looks like a giant tennis ball exploded. That’s because the city’s pollen count on Saturday, March 29 was 14,801. This is the highest recorded count in 35 years and with spring here, the yellow fallout may just be beginning.

Dealing with pollen can be a real challenge, especially if you’re prone to seasonal allergies.

This article will share some steps to take to deal with high pollen.

Here are some practical strategies to help you manage exposure and symptoms:

Monitor Pollen Levels

Check local pollen forecasts (websites like Pollen.com or apps like Weather and Underground can help).

Pollen counts tend to peak in the morning, on windy days, or after rain, so plan outdoor time when levels are lower, like late afternoon or after heavy rain.

Limit Exposure

Stay indoors during high pollen times if you can. Keep windows closed and use air conditioning with a clean filter (HEPA filters are great if you’ve got one).

When outside, sunglasses can shield your eyes, and a mask (like an N95) can cut down on inhaled pollen.

Clean Up

Pollen sticks to everything. Shower and change clothes after being outside—wash your hair too, since pollen loves to hitch a ride there.

Wipe down pets if they’ve been out, and vacuum or dust with a damp cloth to trap particles instead of kicking them up.

Over-the-Counter Relief

Antihistamines (like cetirizine or loratadine) can tackle sneezing and itching. Nasal sprays (like fluticasone) help with congestion.

Saline rinses, like a neti pot, can flush pollen out of your sinuses—just use distilled or boiled water to keep it safe.

Natural Options

Some swear by local honey to build tolerance, though evidence is shaky. Quercetin (found in onions, apples) might act as a natural antihistamine—small studies suggest it could help, but it’s not a slam dunk.

Final Word

If it’s bad for you this year, see an allergist. Allergy shots or sublingual drops can desensitize you over time, but they’re a commitment (months to years).

What’s your situation—mild annoyance or full-on allergy meltdown? That’ll tweak the approach.

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Another day, another discount retailer closing its doors. This time, it’s Dollar General, the cheap shopper’s #1 resource across America. The company recently announced that it will shut the doors on nearly 100 store locations.

The store closures will be a mix of Dollar General and pOpshelf locations, which will happen soon. As of now, 96 Dollar General stores and 45 pOpshelf locations will shut down in the first quarter of 2025, the company disclosed in a March 19 announcement.

Dollar General To Close Stores ‘Challenging’ To Operate

The company announced these closures in its latest earnings report on March 13, 2025, following a “store portfolio optimization review” that evaluated individual store performance, expected future performance, and operating conditions.

CEO Todd Vasos noted that many of the stores targeted for closure, particularly the 96 Dollar General locations, are in urban areas that have become “increasingly challenging to successfully operate,” though no precise cities or addresses have been disclosed yet.

In recent comments, Vasos also noted that consumers are hurting, which hurting store sales. He said, “Many of our customers report they only have enough money for basic essentials, with some noting that they have had to sacrifice even on the necessities.”

The 45 pOpshelf closures represent about 22% of that brand’s footprint, but similarly, no specific sites have been named.

Additionally, six pOpshelf stores will be converted into Dollar General stores.

These closures represent less than 1% of the company’s total store base, which exceeds 20,000 locations across the U.S. Despite these closures, Dollar General is also planning to open approximately 575 new stores and remodel around 2,000 existing ones throughout 2025, indicating a net growth in its overall store count by the end of the year.

Why Is Dollar General Facing Financial Difficulties?

Operationally, Dollar General is grappling with declining profitability. Its operating profit fell 49% year-over-year in Q4 2024, driven by lower sales volumes, shrinking gross margins (down to 30% in Q2 2024 from 31.1% the prior year), and increased costs.

These costs include higher markdowns, inventory damages, and “shrink” (losses from theft or damage), as well as rising operational expenses like rent, labor, and supply chain logistics.

The decision to close certain stores stems from an internal review aimed at optimizing performance, particularly in underperforming or challenging urban locations, while the company continues to expand elsewhere. So, while some individual stores are shutting down, Dollar General as a company is not ceasing operations and is instead adjusting its footprint.

What Other Stores Are Facing Financial Troubles?

The year has been rough not only for Dollar General, but for several U.S. retailers. Here’s a look at those that have reported issues with their bottom line.

• Target: On March 4, 2025, Target reported a sales drop for February and forecasted flat comparable sales growth for 2025, citing economic volatility and “meaningful pressure” on profits due to new tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China, alongside other rising costs. Profits and sales slipped in late 2024, with consumer hesitancy evident ahead of the holidays, and shares are down nearly 15% year-to-date.
• Walgreens: The pharmacy chain is in the midst of closing 1,200 stores by 2027, with 500 slated for fiscal year 2025, as part of a cost-cutting strategy amid financial strain. This follows years of challenges, including declining foot traffic and profitability in its retail pharmacy segment.
• Joann: The craft retailer has faced severe financial distress, filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy twice—first in March 2024 and again in January 2025. It plans to close 500 of its roughly 850 stores nationwide as part of its restructuring, burdened by $1 billion in debt despite securing $132 million in new financing in 2024.
• Kohl’s: The department store chain announced on January 10, 2025, plans to close 27 underperforming stores by April 2025, representing less than 3% of its 1,150+ locations. This follows closures in San Diego due to unmet financial expectations, pointing to broader difficulties in maintaining profitability.
• Party City: After filing for bankruptcy in 2023, Party City continues to struggle, with reports indicating 695 store closures in 2025 alone. Private equity ownership has been blamed for loading the company with debt, exacerbating its financial woes.
• Big Lots: The discount retailer is among those hit hard, with 1,728 total store closures reported across struggling chains in 2025, including a significant number from Big Lots. Its financial difficulties stem from a weakening consumer base and operational inefficiencies.
• Forever 21: The fast-fashion chain filed for bankruptcy for the second time in six years in 2025, citing inflation, competition from online rivals like Shein and Temu, and shifting consumer preferences as key factors in its decline.
• Advanced Auto Parts: Facing a tough retail environment, the company plans to close over 700 locations by mid-2025 as part of a new three-year financial recovery plan, reflecting broader struggles in the auto parts retail sector.
• Macy’s: While undergoing a restructuring, Macy’s is consolidating its physical locations in 2025, with shares slipping 2% in early March amid long-standing difficulties. Consumer uncertainty has hit middle-market retailers like Macy’s harder than discount or luxury brands.

Other retailers like Starbucks, Dollar Tree, Office Depot, and JCPenney are also closing select underperforming locations in 2025, though their overall financial situation has not as of yet appeared to be as dire as those named earlier.

Final Word

Atlanta has a lot of inspirational people and AtlantaFi.com is going to introduce you to many of them as well as cool places to go, great restaurants and other ATL happenings.

Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our  news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

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Putnam County officials have confirmed that they have recovered the body of a coach that went missing mfore than a month ago.

Sheriff Howard Sills has confirmed that Gary Jones’ body was discovered around 1 p.m. in approximately 45 feet of water, not far from where the body of his fiancée, Joycelyn Wilson, a Spelman College instructor, was found.

The gruesome discovery made Sunday, March 9, 2025, marks almost exactly one month since Gary Jones and his fiancée, Joycelyn Wilson, disappeared while boating on Lake Oconee.

Wilson’s body was recovered after they both went missing during the first week of February. The 47-year-old was a senior track-and-field instructor in the Department of Mathematics at Spelman College, where she had been since 2007.

Jones was a faculty member and varsity track-and-field coach at Westminster, a private Christian school in Atlanta.

Gary Jones: Body of Well-Like Coach Found in Lake Oconee

Gary Jones, a faculty member and varsity track-and-field coach at Westminster Schools in Atlanta, has been missing since February 8, 2025, following a boating incident on Lake Oconee. He and his fiancée, Joycelyn Nicole Wilson, a senior instructor at Spelman College, were last seen together when their unoccupied boat was discovered circling near Wallace Dam.

Joycelyn Wilson’s body was recovered the next day, but despite extensive search efforts—including the use of divers, cadaver dogs, and aerial assistance—Gary Jones had not been found. The search was suspended indefinitely after 22 days, but resumed shortly after.

Authorities have noted certain peculiarities in the case, leading them to treat it as more than a routine drowning. Items such as Wilson’s fanny pack containing cash and credit cards, along with a cell phone, were found, prompting further investigation. The Secret Service began assisting in attempting to unlock Wilson’s phone for additional evidence.

Gary Jones’ family had expressed their unwavering commitment to finding him, stating, “We will not rest until he is found.”

The Georgia General Assembly is in the midst of its 2025 legislative session, which began in January and is expected to conclude by late March or early April.

As of this writing, a slew of bills have already passed both legislative bodies in Georgia and have been signed into law by Gov. Brian Kemp.

What Bills Are Due To Take Effect in Georgia This Year?

Bills passed during this session that are signed will typically take effect on July 1, 2025, unless specified otherwise in the legislation.

However, since the session is ongoing and the governor has 40 days after the session ends to sign or veto bills, it’s not yet fully determined which bills will officially become law in 2025.

Below is an overview of notable bills that have either already taken effect on January 1, 2025, or are currently advancing through the legislative process with a strong chance of becoming law by July 1, 2025, based on available information and legislative progress.

Bills Already in Effect as of January 1, 2025

Several laws passed in previous sessions took effect at the start of 2025, such as these:

• Amendment 1 (HB 581): Approved by 62.92% of voters in November 2024, this constitutional amendment limits property tax increases by adjusting the statewide homestead exemption. Local governments can opt out via a specific process. It includes broader property tax changes outlined in HB 581.
• Amendment 2: Passed with 51.89% voter approval, this establishes the Georgia Tax Court to handle tax disputes, moving jurisdiction from the Department of Revenue to the judicial branch. Administrative setup begins January 1, 2025, with the court fully operational by August 1, 2026.
• HB 1072: Provides tax exemptions for donating drugs to a state drug repository program, effective January 1, 2025.
• SB 19: Requires superior court clerks and probate judges to disclose passport fee collections quarterly to county governments, addressing past concerns about clerks retaining these fees.
• SB 232: Updates probate court fees for various filings, including legal documents, weapons carry licenses, and marriage licenses.
• HB 1339: Includes a tax credit provision for rural hospital organizations, effective January 1, 2025.
• HB 880: Allows spouses of military servicemembers stationed in Georgia to practice their occupations without a state-specific license.
• SB 341: Amends legislative privilege rules for General Assembly staff communications with the Office of Legislative Counsel, aligning them with existing member privileges.
• SB 366: Reforms the process for introducing and formalizing the state budget (general appropriations bill).

Bills Advancing in the 2025 Legislative Session

The following bills are currently under consideration in the 2025 session and have either passed one chamber or are gaining traction. Their fate depends on passage by both the House and Senate and the governor’s approval:

• Tort Reform Package (Announced January 29, 2025): Governor Kemp unveiled a package to stabilize insurance costs and reform litigation. Key provisions include:
  • Limiting premises liability to what property owners directly control.
  • Requiring medical damages in personal injury cases to reflect actual costs paid, not inflated amounts.
  • Allowing bifurcated trials (separating liability and damages phases).
  • Permitting evidence of seatbelt non-use in auto accident cases.
  • Banning double recovery of attorney fees and reforming third-party litigation funding to exclude hostile foreign entities.
• SB 65: Mandates kindergarten attendance, under consideration in the Senate.
• HB 566 and HB 556: Address AI and deepfakes—HB 566 protects artists’ likenesses, while HB 556 curbs AI misuse. Both are being reviewed in the House.
• SB 303 and HB 215: Aim to protect voter roll integrity and election processes, highlighted as critical by some observers on X.
• Transgender Athletes Ban: A bill to prohibit transgender athletes from participating in girls’ school sports has been advancing, per StateAffairsGA.
• Gun Safety and Death Penalty Reforms: Bills on gun safety and banning the death penalty for intellectually disabled individuals are moving forward, as noted by GeorgiaRecorder.
• SB 233 (School Voucher Law): Already passed in a prior session, this law expands in 2025, offering $6,000 vouchers to students in the bottom 25% of schools under Georgia’s academic ratings.
• SB 189: Changes voting registration for homeless individuals, requiring them to use county election offices for mail, effective in 2025.

The Georgia Assembly 2025 Legislative Session

• Crossover Day: March 6, 2025, is Crossover Day, the deadline for bills to pass one chamber to remain viable this session. Bills not passing by this date may still be revived via attachment to other legislation.
• Budget: Lawmakers are crafting a $40.5 billion state budget, the largest in Georgia history, which must be finalized and signed into law.
• Past Session Insight: In 2024, Kemp signed over 700 bills, suggesting a high volume of legislation could again become law in 2025.

Kemp Signs Amended Budget

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp recently signed an amended budget that includes some key initiatives for the state. Here’s what they entail:

n addition to investments in healthcare, public safety, education, and returning $1 billion to taxpayers through a third one-time special tax refund, the amended budget includes investments and allocations for:

• Hurricane Helene Relief: More then $867 million for response costs and relief, including but not limited to, one-time grants to public rural and critical access hospitals included in the major disaster declaration area to assist in financial stabilization and recovery efforts, disaster relief assistance to impacted farmers and timber producers, and grants to non-profits for Hurricane Helene rebuilding and recovery efforts.
• Education and Workforce Development: $140 million in additional allocations to fully fund QBE and support our local school systems to help us build an unrivaled workforce as we work to make Georgia the Top State for Talent.
• Public Safety and Corrections: More than $434 million in new funding for the Department of Corrections to fortify state facilities, invest in Corrections Officers, and equip them with the tools they need to be effective and efficient.
• Fighting Human Trafficking: $3.5 million to design a recovery center for victims of human trafficking – an effort championed by First Lady Marty Kemp – and over $187,000 to expand the Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit to the Macon and Augusta regions.
• School Security: An additional $50 million in one-time funds for another round of security grants to all K-12 public schools.
• Coastal Water Infrastructure: $501.7 million in funding for the development and construction of water infrastructure in Georgia’s coastal region to meet the growing demand due to historic economic development.
• Local Water and Sewer Infrastructure: Over $266 million in funding for the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority to support water and sewer infrastructure development projects across Georgia.
• Local Road Infrastructure: $265 million into the local maintenance and improvement grant program and $46 million to the Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank’s grant and loan program. 
• Combating Wildfires: $4.7 million for the Forestry Commission to purchase a new fire suppression helicopter

Since the legislative session is ongoing, the final list of laws effective July 1, 2025, will only be confirmed after the session ends (likely late March) and the governor acts by mid-May.

Final Word

Atlanta is filled with things to do, including dining options, from fine dining to trendy cafes, and some of the city’s best rooftop bars with skyline views.Boutique shops, unique galleries, and retail options add to Midtown Atlanta’s charm for those looking to shop local or find unique items.Downtown Atlanta is a hub for tech companies, startups, and corporate offices, giving it an energetic, innovative vibe.

Last Woof

A man’s body was recovered from Lake Lanier on Thursday evening, according to the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office. The incident makes for the first death at Lake Lanier this in 2025.

A spokesperson for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources confirmed the recovery, though the man’s identity has not been released.

Forsyth County deputies reported a heavy police presence at the Six Mile Creek boat ramp in a Facebook post. Authorities stated that no foul play is suspected. Additional details have not yet been disclosed.

How Many Deaths Occurred at Lake Lanier Last Year?

In 2024, there were at least three reported drownings at Lake Lanier:

1. May 29, 2024: Matthew Mayo, 73, drowned after falling from his fishing boat when a seat became unbolted.
2. June 5, 2024: Jim Hansard, 76, was found deceased in 13 feet of water near his dock.
3. September 2024: Hasani Kamau Widemond, 46, drowned while attempting to swim to his boat from the shore, in view of his family.

While these incidents highlight the ongoing concerns about safety at Lake Lanier, comprehensive statistics for the total number of deaths in 2024 have not been publicly released. Historically, the lake has averaged about 10 deaths per year, though recent trends indicate a slight decrease.

Given the lake’s popularity, with over 11 million visitors annually, it’s crucial for visitors to exercise caution, wear life jackets, and be aware of potential hazards to ensure a safe experience.

Lake Lanier has gained a reputation for frequent drownings and boating accidents, leading to speculation about its dangers. Several key factors contribute to the high number of deaths:

1. Underwater Hazards

• Uneven Lake Bottom: The lake was created by flooding valleys, which left behind submerged structures, trees, and debris. This makes swimming and boating riskier.
• Strong Currents: Water releases from Buford Dam can create unpredictable currents.
• Poor Visibility: Murky water makes it hard for swimmers to see underwater obstacles.

2. Heavy Boat Traffic

• Popularity: Lake Lanier is one of the busiest lakes in the U.S., with millions of visitors annually. High traffic increases the risk of collisions and accidents.
• Inexperienced Boaters: Many visitors lack proper boating knowledge, leading to reckless or unsafe behavior.

3. Alcohol and Reckless Behavior

• Drinking and Boating: Alcohol is a common factor in accidents, impairing judgment and reaction times.
• Not Wearing Life Jackets: Many drownings involve individuals who were not wearing life vests, even in deep water.

4. Rapid Depth Changes

• Swimmers can easily go from shallow areas to deep water unexpectedly, increasing the risk of drowning.

5. Urban Legends and Myths

• Some believe the lake is “cursed” due to its history. It was built over communities, including the predominantly Black town of Oscarville, and cemeteries. While no supernatural evidence exists, the eerie history fuels speculation.

Despite its dangers, safety precautions—such as wearing life jackets, avoiding alcohol while boating, and being aware of underwater hazards—can reduce risks.

Would you like to know more about specific incidents or safety measures?

Read about the infamous history of Lake Lanier.

Delta Air Lines on Monday, Feb. 24, 2025, encountered several harrowing minutes after a plane had to turn around due to smoke or haze in the cabin.

On Monday morning, Delta Flight 876 had to return to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport due to “haze” inside the aircraft.

The flight crew followed proper protocols, declared an emergency for priority handling from air traffic control, and turned back to Atlanta after noticing the haze.

Upon landing on Runway 27, emergency slides were deployed to help passengers exit quickly.

In a statement, Delta said 94 passengers were on board the Boeing 717, which had just departed for Columbia, South Carolina, when the haze was detected. The pilots declared an emergency to ensure priority assistance from air traffic controllers.

Once on the ground, emergency slides were used for a fast evacuation. Delta spokesperson Samantha Moore Facteau confirmed via email that two passengers were treated by EMTs.

“Nothing is more important than the safety of our customers and people,” the airline said, adding an apology to passengers for the experience.

The Boeing 717 was carrying 94 passengers, two pilots, and three flight attendants. The two passengers treated by EMTs were released after being evaluated. Delta provided ground transportation and rebooking for affected customers, and a new flight to Columbia was arranged on another aircraft.Attach

The two passengers treated by EMTs were released after being evaluated. Delta provided ground transportation and rebooking for affected customers, and a new flight to Columbia was arranged on another aircraft.

How Many Airline Incidents Have Occurred in the U.S. This Year?

Here’s a list of notable airline and aviation incidents reported in the United States in 2025 up to today, February 25, 2025, based on available information:

1. January 29, 2025 – Midair Collision near Ronald Reagan National Airport, Washington, D.C.
   An American Airlines regional jet (PSA Airlines Flight 5342, a Bombardier CRJ700) collided with a U.S. Army Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter while approaching the airport. The crash occurred over the Potomac River, killing all 64 people on the jet and all 3 onboard the helicopter, totaling 67 fatalities. This was the deadliest U.S. aviation incident in nearly 24 years and the first fatal commercial airline crash in the U.S. in 16 years.
2. January 31, 2025 – Learjet Crash in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
   A Learjet 55, operated by Jet Rescue Air Ambulance as Med Jets Flight 056, crashed shortly after takeoff from Northeast Philadelphia Airport into the Castor Gardens neighborhood. All 6 people onboard perished, making it a fatal incident.
3. February 1, 2025 – Aircraft Tug Collision at O’Hare International Airport, Chicago, Illinois
   An American Airlines plane struck an aircraft tug vehicle at O’Hare, critically injuring the 64-year-old driver. This was not a crash but a ground incident affecting airline operations. No passenger injuries were reported.
4. February 2, 2025 – United Airlines Engine Fire in Houston, Texas
   A United Airlines plane experienced an engine fire during takeoff from George Bush Intercontinental Airport due to an engine issue. The flight aborted takeoff safely, and no injuries were reported among passengers or crew.
5. February 6, 2025 – Bering Air Crash in Nome, Alaska
   Bering Air Flight 445, a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, crashed over Norton Sound en route from Unalakleet to Nome. The wreckage was found the next day, confirming the deaths of all 10 people onboard, making it another fatal incident.
6. February 10, 2025 – Private Jet Crash in Scottsdale, Arizona
   A private jet veered off the runway at Scottsdale Municipal Airport, killing the pilot and injuring 4 passengers. While not a commercial airline incident, it contributes to the year’s aviation accident tally.
7. February 12, 2025 – Navy Jet Crash in San Diego Bay, California
   A Boeing EA-18G Growler Navy aircraft crashed into San Diego Bay during a training exercise. Both pilots ejected safely and were rescued, resulting in no fatalities.
8. February 19, 2025 – Midair Collision in Marana, Arizona
   Two small planes, a Lancair and a Cessna 172, collided midair near Marana Regional Airport around 8:25 a.m. local time. At least one death was confirmed, though full casualty details are pending. This incident involved general aviation, not commercial airlines.

These incidents include both commercial airline and notable general aviation events. As of February 19, 2025, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported 87 aviation accidents in the U.S., with 13 being fatal, resulting in at least 85 deaths. The February 19 Arizona collision may adjust these figures once fully reported. Investigations are ongoing for most of these incidents, with preliminary reports expected within 30 days and final reports taking 12-24 months.

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A Delta Air Lines plane flying from Minnesota crash-landed in Toronto on Monday, Feb. 17, federal aviation officials confirmed.

Delta said in a statement that Flight 4819, operated by Endeavor Air, injured closed to two dozen people.

“In total, 21 injured passengers were initially transported to local hospitals. As of Tuesday morning, 19 have been released,” the airline said in an updated statement.

After the incident, it was reported that two people were airlifted to Toronto trauma centers and one child was transported to a children’s hospital.

Images and video from social media showed the aftermath of the crash-landing, which happened in broad daylight.

“Our most pressing priority remains taking care of all customers and Endeavor crew members who were involved,” said Delta CEO Ed Bastian. “We’ll do everything we can to support them and their families in the days ahead, and I know the hearts, thoughts and prayers of the entire Delta community are with them. We are grateful for all the first responders and medical teams who have been caring for them.”

While the FAA and local officials have launched a joint preliminary investigation, the immediate culprit seems to be strong winds, which have been blowing in Toronto all day.

Winds gusts were reported to be about 40 mph at Toronto’s Pearson International Airport.

In a statement, the airport announced that flights, which were briefly halted, have begun again.

Departures and arrivals have resumed at Toronto Pearson as of 5 p.m.,” the statement read. “All 76 passengers and four crew from Delta flight 4819 were accounted for. A number of passengers were taken to local hospitals. GTAA staff are supporting families of passengers at arrivals,”

As of now, there have been four deadly plane crashes in the United States in 2025, resulting in a total of 85 fatalities. Prior to this year, the most recent deadly plane crash involving a U.S. airliner occurred in 2009.

Final Word

If you’re thinking about traveling abroad, make sure you get your passport, as soon as you can.

To save money, look for the cheapest flights from Atlanta that are on sale.  To keep costs down, use these travel hacks to save money and time.

To Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is so accessible.

Not only is it the world’s busiest airport, but it’s state-of-the-art in every way. If you’re interested in traveling around Atlanta via car or even on scooter, here’s what to know.

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