A MAJOR airport has been hit by strike action with thousands of passengers facing cancelled strikes.
Ground handling group, Alyzia, are taking part in a national strike which affects airlines like Brussels Airlines, ITA Airways, Air Arabia and United Airlines.
Staff at Brussels Airport is staging a walkoutCredit: Getty
The airport expects only half of the flights handled by Alyzia to operate as planned.
Brussels Airport said that airlines working with Alyzia have contacted passengers directly to inform them about the status of their flight and their options.
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It added: “We regret the inconvenience caused by this union action.”
The strike action comes as workers protest against governmental policies.
According to FlightRadar which monitors movements of planes, Brussels Airport has had 103 cancellations today and 34 flights have been delayed.
As this strike is outside the control of individual airlines, it will be deemed an ‘extraordinary circumstance’, which means if your flight is cancelled you will not be entitled to compensation.
Public transport is also expected to be disrupted in Brussels today too.
The good news for Brits is that flights handled by Aviapartner will not be affected.
This includes major airlines serving UK destinations such as British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair, Tui, and Wizz Air.
The airport told The Independent that around 400 flights will still operate as usual today.
The strike is expected to affect almost 20 airlinesCredit: AP
Flight compensation rules
A look at your rights if a flight is delayed or cancelled, when your entitled to compensation and if your travel insurance can cover the costs.
What are my rights if my flight is cancelled or delayed?
Under UK law, airlines have to provide compensation if your flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late.
If you’re flying to or from the UK, your airline must let you choose a refund or an alternative flight.
You will be able to get your money back for the part of your ticket that you haven’t used yet.
So if you booked a return flight and the outbound leg is cancelled, you can get the full cost of the return ticket refunded.
But if travelling is essential, then your airline has to find you an alternative flight. This could even be with another airline.
When am I not entitled to compensation?
The airline doesn’t have to give you a refund if the flight was cancelled due to reasons beyond their control, such as extreme weather.
Disruptions caused by things like extreme weather, airport or air traffic control employee strikes or other ‘extraordinary circumstances’ are not eligible for compensation.
Some airlines may stretch the definition of “extraordinary circumstances” but you can challenge them through the aviation regulator the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Will my insurance cover me if my flight is cancelled?
If you can’t claim compensation directly through the airline, your travel insurance may refund you.
Policies vary so you should check the small print, but a delay of eight to 12 hours will normally mean you qualify for some money from your insurer.
Remember to get written confirmation of your delay from the airport as your insurer will need proof.
If your flight is cancelled entirely, you’re unlikely to be covered by your insurance.
NEW passport rules are being rolled out across the UK which will make travelling MUCH quicker.
The government recently announced its new scheme where passengers arriving into the UK will be able to pass through e-gates without scanning their passport.
A new contactless passport system is being rolled out in the UKCredit: AlamyBrits returning into the UK will no longer have to scan their passportCredit: AFP
It has now opened up to passengers returning to the UK via East Midlands airport – the first to use the system.
The government has said that in its testing, the new contactless system is up to 25 per cent faster than current e-gates.
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It will work by passengers having their photo taken at the e-gate – it’s checked by the system, verified against immigration, travel and passport information.
Essentially it takes away the need to both have a picture taken and scan the passport.
Once the checks are complete, the e-gates will open automatically.
If there is a need for further checks, then passengers will need to place their passport on the reader – or they could be asked to see a Border Force officer.
Passengers should still keep their passport with them at all times.
At the moment, the contactless system will be for British citizens only, but will eventually be able to be used by other nationalities.
The new passport system has opened at East Midlands AirportCredit: Alamy
It’s set to be in place at all airports across the UK by early 2027.
Phil Douglas, Director General of Border Force, said: “This is a win for travellers coming to our brilliant country.
“By using state-of-the-art technology, we are making journeys smoother and faster, all while fully maintaining the UK’s robust border security.
“Our digital transformation also builds on our work this summer to extend eGates to children aged eight and above, making life a little easier for families.”
The rules come under Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs), which can result in fixed penalties when breached.
In this case, first-time offenders may be given a penalty of £100, with a maximum fine of £500.
However, even with the ban lifted, some councils still require dogs to be on leads while walking on footpaths, promenades, piers and zig zags.
The seasonal ban comes every year with the aim of keeping beaches clean and safe during the busier summer months, especially when children may be visiting the coast.
Foul left behind by pets can also act as a major health hazard – even if the majority of dog owners are responsible enough to pick it up.
The rules do not apply to guide dogs, who are allowed on beaches at all times while working and in a harness.
IF YOU are due to head to or from Italy today you might want to check your flight as strikes across the country have seen huge cancellations.
Strike action is set to take place across Italy today between 1pm and 5pm with ENAV – the company that runs Italian air traffic control – walking out at all 33 Italian airports.
A number of major Italian airports including Milan are set to be impactedCredit: Alamy
The main airports expected to be affected include Rome, Naples, Milan and Venice.
Flights cancelled today already include:
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10:15am British Airways flight to Milan from London Heathrow
3:25pm British Airways flight to London Heathrow from Milan
11:50am British Airways flight to Venice from London Heathrow
5:20pm British Airways flight to London Heathrow from Venice
1:25pm British Airways flight to Milan from London City
2:25pm British Airways flight to London City from Florence
5:50pm British Airways flight to London City from Milan
3:50pm Ryanair flight to Bologna from London Luton
Currently, flights to Italy from London Heathrow and London Gatwick state they are scheduled as planned, though this may change.
ITA Airways has already warned that 29 per cent of its scheduled flights are cancelled today.
Passengers are being advised to check their flight status with their airline and airport before travelling.
If you are due to fly this morning between 7am and 10am or this evening between 6pm and 9pm then your flight is guaranteed to go ahead as normal, under Italian law.
If you are able to move your flight, then it might be worth doing this to avoid disruption.
Airlines are advising passengers to check their flight status ahead of travelling to the airportCredit: Alamy
Unfortunately though, if your flight is delayed or cancelled you won’t get any compensation as a strike is deemed to be outside of the airline’s control.
But airlines do have a duty of care so should provide you with food and water and if necessary, accommodation overnight.
There is also set to be a strike on October 16 in Italy, lasting 24 hours – but this time it will be easyJet flight crew walking out.
ANOTHER UK airport is hiking its drop-off fees while making time limits shorter in a double blow for travellers.
The transport hub has confirmed that the cost of dropping passengers off at the departures terminal will go up by £3.
Another UK airport has increased its terminal drop-off feeCredit: GettyEast Midlands Airport says the hike has come as a result of “inflationary pressures”Credit: Alamy
East Midlands Airport has introduced the higher fee after Gatwick, Heathrow, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Bristol, Stansted, Leeds Bradford and more did the same earlier this year.
The Derby-based airport will charge £8 for a 10-minute stay at its rapid drop-off zone as of September 29 at 3pm.
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The price is up by £3 for less time allowed, with drivers previously being charged £5 for a 15-minute stay.
Airport bosses confirmed that the hike was brought in as a result of “significant inflationary pressures”.
The extra money is also set to go towards paying for an ongoing £120million investment to improve the airport.
Prior to the recent increase, the fee remained unchanged for five years.
Last year, the airport swapped its barrier system and introduced automatic number plate recognition cameras to improve the flow of the drop-off system.
Along with the ANPR tracking, new drop-off fee and shorter drop-off window, customers have until midnight the day after their airport visit to pay the charge.
The fee can be paid online or via phone – and those who do not pay in time are slapped with a £100 fine.
While the fine is dropped to £60 if paid within 14 days, North West Leicestershire MP Amanda Hack has hit back at the scheme.
Arguing that the new drop-off rules is “setting people up to fail”, she said: “The announcement by East Midlands Airport of changes to its rapid drop-off pricing and a reduction in the permitted waiting time is frustrating.
“While I welcome the investment the airport has made over the last couple of years, the way the rapid drop-off is currently set up feels stacked against consumers.”
The MP added hat having less time to complete drop-offs and the responsibility to remember to pay will no doubt mean more users face hefty fines.
“I already deal with numerous complaints from constituents and people across the UK who have received a £100 parking penalty notice because they simply forgot to pay,” she told the BBC.
“Increasing the price while simultaneously reducing the time allowed is only likely to make this situation worse.”
Hack says that she has asked the airport to install machines that allow them to pay the drop-off fee there and then.
“My concern has always been that the current arrangement at East Midlands Airport appears to set people up to fail,” she added.
Responding to the criticism over the new fee, East Mindlands Airport said in a statement: “Airport drop-off areas help to manage on-site congestion, with charges managing what is the most polluting form of transport to the airport.
“The new fees are proportionate in the context of inflationary increases and brings East Midlands Airport in line with other UK airports.
“The airport is well served by frequent 24/7 bus services from Nottingham, Derby and Leicester and surrounding communities, with stops close to the terminal.”
NEW rules for Brits travelling from the UK to Ireland via the ferry have come into force today.
For the first time in over 100 years, passengers are required to carry a valid passport or risk being denied boarding.
Anyone travelling between the UK and Ireland will need to carry a valid passportCredit: AlamyPreviously travellers could take the crossing with a drivers license or bus passCredit: Alamy
Prior to today, passengers were not required to show a passport when taking the crossing.
Instead, they were asked to have another form of photo ID with a photograph like a driving licence or a bus pass.
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Now, travellers have been told to carry a valid passport due to the UK Border Forceis tightening rules on “accuracy and integrity of passenger data before boarding”.
Routes affected will be between Britain and the the Republic of Ireland of which Irish Ferries operates two routes.
These go between Holyhead and Dublin, and Pembroke and Rosslare.
Another ferry enforcing these rules is Stena Line which has crossings between Holyhead and Dublin as well as Fishguard and Rosslare.
Irish Ferries explained: “This is a change to the current ID accepted and means that from 28 September, no other forms of photo ID will be accepted by Irish Ferries for any passengers, including Irish and UK citizens
“This is to ensure compliance with UKBorder Forcerequirements relating to the accuracy and integrity of passenger data before boarding.“
Previously, passengers didn’t have to carry their passports with them because of what’s known as The Common Travel Area (CTA).
The CTA is a passport-free zone involving the UK, Ireland, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands dating back to 1923.
Operators have warned that no other form of ID will be accepted on the crossingsCredit: Alamy
British and Irish citizens don’t legally need a passport to travel between the two destinations.
But carrying passports has since became a requirement by airlines like Ryanair and Aer Lingus for passengers flying between the two destinations.
Former “Today” show host Billy Bush feel from grace a decade ago when a tape leaked of him giggling on a hot mic while then “Apprentice” star Donald Trump boasted about grabbing women.
This week it was announced that Bush was joining Fox News Media as a contributor covering pop culture, entertainment, and cultural issues.
Bush joins other right-leaning personalities who’ve rebuilt their careers at Fox following scandals elsewhere.
It’s not surprising that former “Today” host Billy Bush joined Fox News as a regular contributor this week. What is surprising is that it took so long.
Ten years have passed since Bush, cousin to former President George W. Bush, was caught on a hot mic giggling while then-“Apprentice” star Donald Trump boasted about grabbing women “by the pussy.” The “Access Hollywood” clip, filmed in 2005 when Bush hosted the entertainment news program, was leaked a month before the 2016 presidential election, meaning just about everyone in America saw it.
A disgraced Bush lost his job and reputation. Trump won the White House.
Once known for his boyish charm and impressive collection of cowboy boots, Bush spent a decade re-ingratiating himself to the public on the syndicated television news magazine “Extra,” a considerable step down from the “Today” show. He reported on Hollywood and celebrity culture before launching his own digital show and podcast more than a year ago.
Now he finally has gone where popular conservative public figures go following scandals, stumbles or mishaps that all but destroy their livelihoods: Fox News. Rupert Murdoch’s crown jewel has given a second chance to more than a few successful, right-leaning personalities who have been shamed by mainstream media or canceled by a public who doesn’t find sexual assault boasts particularly funny.
Jeanine Pirro’s political career was derailed in 2006 after tapped phone calls she had with former New York City Police Commissioner Bernard Kerik were revealed. She had been plotting to bug her then-husband’s yacht in an attempt to catch him in an affair. After the transcripts went public, she lost the race for state attorney general to Andrew Cuomo. The scandal marked the end of her political career in New York — but the start of her career as a Fox News contributor and host. She stayed with the network for two decades. Pirro left last year when Trump nominated her to serve as the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia. She subsequently was confirmed by the Senate.
Pete Hegseth joined Fox News as a full-time host in 2017 after reportedly being forced out of leadership positions at two prominent veterans advocacy nonprofits, Veterans for Freedom and Concerned Veterans for America. Multiple disturbing accusations were made within the organizations about his sexual impropriety, financial misconduct and heavy drinking. Hegseth left Fox in 2024, when Trump announced him as the nominee for secretary of Defense. He subsequently was confirmed by the Senate.
The pipeline from scandal to Fox News to Capitol Hill was noted when Bush, now 52, made his debut Tuesday night on “Jesse Watters Primetime.” Host Watters joked that “Trump might hire you for the Cabinet” now that he had joined Fox News. Bush suggested a role for himself as White House press secretary. Watters countered that, saying, “Trump is expected to hire a woman.”
Bush joked that he has “female energy.”
The joke was tone deaf, even if Bush does deserve a second chance for his part as the dumb sidekick to Trump’s abhorrent comments during that “Access Hollywood” segment so long ago.
In a statement about his new role at the network, Fox said Bush would host “as a contributor, where he will appear across all platforms” The press release failed to mention his 2016 hot mic leak but managed to name-check Bush’s digital talk show and video podcast, “Hot Mics With Billy Bush.”
Bush may have dashed his chances of moving into Trump’s inner, or even outer, circle when on his “Hot Mics” show he said this of the president: “I had two relatives who served in that role and both had deep, deep, deep reverence for that office. The man that’s in there now has turned it into a bordello.”
He was taking issue with Trump’s ban on CNN, Politico and MS Now. The trio of news networks was denied access to the White House complex last week and had their press badges revoked after the president took issue with their coverage of him. In an unusual display of solidarity across the industry, more than 50 media organizations called for the immediate reversal of the ban. Bush praised the networks — including Fox — for their show of support.
How will Bush navigate his dislike for Trumpian policy at a news organization that’s devoted years of coverage to propping up Trump? By walking a fine line, apparently.
“I’m excited to join FOX News Media and its loyal audience to share my perspective on the people, ideas and moments shaping today’s culture … as well as the ones trying to undo it!” Bush said about his new job shaping culture.
Actor D’Arcy Carden stopped by early, beating the cadre of guests crowding the main plaza beneath the now-famous oculus of the 300,000-square-foot Ma Yansong-designed building. A Stormtrooper drove by on a flatbed truck, shortly before R2-D2 greeted visitors in the courtyard, wearing an official staff badge. (The line for a selfie with the droll droid stretched as far as the eye could see.) Museum leaders have long said that “Star Wars” artifacts account for about 7% of the 100,000 square feet of gallery space, but one worker quipped 90% of opening-day attendees likely had a vested interest in the franchise.
This proved true, for the most part: Many visitors clearly knew and loved “Star Wars,” and Princess Leia buns and Yoda ears abounded. (Two Padmé Amidalas ran into each other, and according to a restaurant worker, one brave soul showed up in “Star Trek” gear.)
David Perez, 27, (right) donned his “Back to the Future” gear, hoping to see art from the movie. But he and his brother Carlos Perez, 28, (left) were quite pleased with the “Star Wars” artifacts in the Cinema section.
(Carlin Stiehl / For The Times)
Still, the museum, as its famous co-founder George Lucas has repeatedly said, is about more than just one story, however beloved. That sentiment cropped up repeatedly in interviews, too: Early guests seemed to believe the museum’s brochure, which notes that the galleries are about the “narrative art” of illustrating stories.
Co-founders Lucas and businesswoman Mellody Hobson (also Lucas’ wife) gave remarks early Tuesday to the first 100 visitors, consisting of students from USC, Los Angeles Technology Center, Otis College of Art and Design and Los Angeles City College, who were all handed free tickets.
A yellow Naboo N-1 Starfighter hangs above the education lobby, across from the main plaza, guarding the research library.
(Carlin Stiehl / For The Times)
“I’ve spent more than 50 years collecting the work of artists who don’t always get their due — illustrators, cartoonists, muralists, painters — because I believe their images are as vital as any other art form,” Lucas said. “They deserve to be in a museum.”
“This is a museum of the ‘people’s art’ — the images are illustrations of the beliefs we live with every day,” said Hobson, “and for that reason, this art belongs to everyone.”
Later that day, The Times asked visitors to share their impressions of a museum that, until now, has lived largely in the imaginations of fans and in abundant social media posts online. The museum has drawn loads of applause but also plenty of criticism, mostly for its lack of context via wall text, and for displaying art that not everyone agrees should be elevated.
Do the people love the “people’s art”?
Responses have been edited for length and clarity.
Alden Chang and his wife flew 6,800 miles from Taiwan to thank George Lucas for creating the “Star Wars” films and franchise. Chang told The Times that he also wrote an academic paper examining “Star Wars” fan culture in Taiwan.
(Carlin Stiehl / For The Times)
Alden Chang, 32, green product engineer from Taiwan
You flew all the way from Taiwan, just for this?
Chang: Yeah, halfway across the world to meet George Lucas and Miss [Mellody] Hobson.
Did you get to meet them?
Chang: Yeah, I just shook hands with them this morning. It’s like a dream come true.
How long ago did you and your wife get here,and how long are you staying?
Chang: For eight days. We came here on Sept. 18.
Is this the highlight of the trip?
Chang: Sure. [Laughs.] It’s my main mission and my main goal.
(Later, in an email, Chang told The Times that he also wrote an academic paper examining “Star Wars” fan culture in Taiwan.)
Friends Robert Meier, left, and Marc Downing used to work as ushers at the Music Center together. Growing up, Marc rode his bike where the Lucas Museum now stands.
(Carlin Stiehl / For The Times)
Marc Downing, 71, retired, from Exposition Park and Robert Meier, 70, educator, from Highland Park
Downing: I go to all the museums. This was the newest museum, so I had to come and see this.
How does this compare to the other L.A. museums?
Downing: This is ultra modern, ultra space-future. I’m glad the museum is here; highly recommend it. And I’m proud that it’s in my city, and I’m glad that it’s in the neighborhood that I grew up with.
What made you want to be a member of the museum, Robert?
Meier: It’s giving to the neighborhood. I’ve admired George Lucas — I used to have a relative in Marin County, and growing up, we’d go to lunch, and I’d see George Lucas and his family. We’d be at the same restaurant together.
Downing: Well, speaking of this neighborhood: This used to be a parking lot. I remember it very well. And I used to come here and ride my bike in this neighborhood as a kid.
C.S. Lee sits on a bench at the south viewpoint of the museum, gazing out onto the sculpture garden below. “This is why you live in Southern California. This is why you live in L.A.: for days like these.”
(Carlin Stiehl / For The Times)
C.S. Lee, 54, actor, from Koreatown
Lee: “Star Wars” was the very first movie I ever saw in my life as a 4-year-old when I immigrated here from Korea. We landed in Hawaii, in Waikiki Beach. Our family friends took us to a drive-in movie cinema place, and they said, “You want to come see a movie?” And it was “Star Wars” and “King Kong,” double billing. And my mom said when I saw the screen, my eyes popped out of my head because I’d never seen a movie before.
How do you think “Star Wars” impacted how you saw narrative and story?
Lee: I think I carried that all through my life: the story of “Star Wars.” I was like, “Oh, the good guys won!” And it was such an uplifting thing for me to hold on [to] all these years.
What did you think about the rest of the museum?
Lee: It’s so beautifully done: all the curves, all the light. You got the wind coming through the trees that they planted. I mean, honestly, I was just looking out, thinking to myself, “Wow, this is why you live in Southern California. This is why you live in L.A.: for days like these.”
The view of the sculpture garden and grounds beyond that C.S. Lee was contemplating from the south viewpoint.
(Carlin Stiehl / For The Times)
What about the building itself?
Lee: We rarely get to see architecture like this. But I think it’s good for people to see the artistry and the imagination of what people can build.
Janet Jacobs, 62, architect and Hanjin Jacobs, 25, audio equipment manufacturer technician, mother and son on a family trip from Portland (pictured at the top of the story)
I see you’re wearing a “Star Wars” T-shirt.
Janet: Yes, I am — actually from 1977.
Wow, really?
Janet: Yeah, I’ve had it for that long [laughs].
What was your overall takeaway from the museum?
Janet: I know George Lucas wanted to create this museum in a different way, like he didn’t have a sequence of events or a roadmap, he just wanted people to experience it the way they wanted to, so that’s all great. We do wish some of the things were explained a little more. Like, I know who Ralph McQuarrie is; [my kids] do not. So that would’ve been nice. Like in a typical museum, you do have a little blurb.
[My son] brought up a really good point: how ironic it is that it’s about storytelling, but yet there seems to be no storyline.
Andrew Liu, left, and Matthew Haak hang loose in front of a KAWS sculpture. They actually didn’t know it was opening day, but were happy to be there anyway.
(Carlin Stiehl / For The Times)
Matthew Haak, 26, architectural designer, and Andrew Liu, 26, behavioral therapy assistant, both from University Park
Haak: We are not “Star Wars” fans. I haven’t watched a single “Star Wars” movie. I’ve somehow evaded them my entire life.
So, if not for “Star Wars,” why did you come out today?
Haak: I’ve been watching this building being constructed for the past two years. I’m just geeking out over the organic curvilinear forms. Not a single hallway has been straight. And they even have real expensive details, like light coves on the base [of the wall]. All of these things really stand out to me. Also, curved walls like this are so expensive; architects never get a budget to do stuff like that.
I was just surprised: It’s not just “Star Wars” stuff. There’s so much art; it’s so cool.
Nicole Garcia — dressed as Padmé Amidala in her lakeside gown — poses in front of a statue of Princess Leia.
(Carlin Stiehl / For The Times)
Nicole Garcia, 24, cosplayer/costumer from Corona and Veronica Antonucci, 40, administrative assistant from Orange County
So, this might be an obvious question [given their fun outfits], but what brought you guys out today?
Antonucci: This little thing called “Star Wars”!
Garcia: Growing up with “Star Wars,” I always loved all the pieces, knowing that, for example, there’s miniature pieces that look just huge on-screen, and seeing them in-person is just, like, I want to shrink myself down and just be there.
Antonucci: It’s also amazing that it’s not just “Star Wars,” and it’s also so much more that everyone should come out and see.
Is there anything else you were particularly excited to see?
Antonucci: I was really excited to see the Frida [Kahlo]. I didn’t know she was gonna be here, so I think when I saw her, I gasped.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Garcia: I just hope the future generations of kids come back to see this, growing up with museums more often, and just learning how to make art — like, physically make art — and be inspired.
Antonucci: Actually, we talked about feeling jealous of all the kids who are going to be here on their school field trips, because we didn’t get to experience this.
Nikki Foster, left, loves a good field trip. She texted her group chat to visit the museum, and her bestie, Shalonda Dean, responded, so they both cleared their calendars for the visit.
(Carlin Stiehl/For The Times)
Shalonda Dean, 47, consulting business founder and president, and Nikki Foster, 45, live event production executive, both from Beverly Hills
Dean: Being a Black woman, I can identify with this little Black girl. Even in 2026, I think this painting depicts a lot of what Black women are going through today, whether it be in the workplace, navigating motherhood, navigating life. And I think this is an example of the barriers that we’re constantly breaking through every day, even today.
Foster: I’ve never seen it in person until now. So when we saw it, we were like, “It’s here, it’s here!” Just to be able to lay our eyes on it, and not have to go to another country, another state — here in Los Angeles. This is divine. It’s a divine day.
“I love meeting people,” Vincent Zabierowski said. “People are my main inspiration. I’m very lucky I get to be in a place where people want to be, and people want to soak up all that creative energy and just experience art.”
(Carlin Stiehl / For The Times)
Vincent Zabierowski, 23, host at the Skywalker Grill and freelance illustrator, lives near Downtown L.A.
As an artist yourself, what are your favorite pieces in the museum?
Zabierowski: I love a lot of the things that are in the graphic novel collection, like the Jack Kirby, the Garfields. My favorite is the Art Nouveau artist Alphonse Mucha. The Diego Rivera mural, that one was really amazing — and just the history here, having it be in L.A.
How does your work as an illustrator inform how you see these pieces?
Zabierowski: When I was going through it with some of my co-workers, I would [ask] “Do you know why they use a blue pencil?” And it’s because, when you take a photograph or a scan, that blue pencil disappears. So it was just really cool to see the behind-the-scenes and understand.
So seeing those blue pencil marks tells you that a piece is real?
Zabierowski: A person made it! I feel like a lot of people see artwork in textbooks, or they see artwork on their phones, or they see artworks on posters, and it takes a lot of skill and intelligence and training to be able to do those pieces of artwork.
Billy Bush, the veteran on-air host whose career was derailed by a crude off-camera conversation he had with President Trump in 2005, has signed on as a contributor to Fox News.
Bush will comment on cultural issues across Fox News Media platforms. He made his first appearance Tuesday on Fox News Channel’s “Jesse Watters Primetime.”
“I’m excited to join Fox News Media and its loyal audience to share my perspective on the people, ideas and moments shaping today’s culture as well as the ones trying to undo it!” Bush, 54, said Tuesday in a statement.
The longtime media personality is the nephew of former President George H.W. Bush and cousin to the 43rd president George W. Bush. He made his own mark on political history when audio of a 2005 conversation he had with Trump, then host of the NBC reality series “The Apprentice,” surfaced during the 2016 presidential campaign.
In the tape, made while Bush was co-host of NBC’s syndicated entertainment news show “Access Hollywood,” Trump boasted about his ability to kiss women and grope their genitals with impunity because he is a celebrity. Bush is heard chuckling and encouraging Trump’s coarse chatter as the future president crudely talked about how he tried to have sex with Nancy O’Dell, then a co-host on “Access.”
Bush is also seen on camera telling “Days of Our Lives” soap opera actress Arianne Zucker to embrace Trump just after the exchange.
Trump’s presidential campaign survived the scandal as he went on to defeat Hillary Clinton that November. Bush did not fare as well.
Bush’s career was on the ascent at the time that the tape made news, having been named co-host of the third hour of NBC’s “Today” in August 2016. He was part of the network’s coverage of the 2016 Summer Olympics coverage in Rio and Prince William’s wedding to Kate Middleton.
But the tape drew outrage from Bush’s female colleagues at NBC News. He apologized for his role in the conversation, saying he “was younger, less mature, and acted foolishly in playing along.” He was suspended from “Today” in October 2016 and did not return to the program as the network chose to pay out his contract.
Bush landed at the syndicated show “Extra” in 2019 and hosted for five seasons. He currently hosts a digital show, “Hot Mics with Billy Bush,” that covers sports, politics, entertainment, tech and pop culture.
A GROWING number of UK airports are facing delays and cancellations following another air traffic control failure.
This comes just a fortnight after a major outage left thousands of passengers stranded at airports across the UK.
Brits are facing delays at a number of UK airports following air traffic control issuesCredit: Zenpix
London Gatwick, Glasgow Airport and Belfast International Airport are amongst airports currently seeing disruptions.
Earlier this morning, it was reported that an issue with National Air Traffic Services (NATS) was affecting airspace in the north of England and Scotland.
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NATS has stressed that the issue is unrelated to the major air traffic control outage that saw over 500,000 passengers stranded.
Belfast International Airport has confirmed on its website that it is experiencing NATS-related delays, saying: “We are currently experiencing some delays to flights due to a NATS air traffic control issue.”
Passengers who do not have a confirmed flight have been instructed to not travel to the airport.
Glasgow Airport has also issued a statement on its website about the delays, saying: “A technical issue affecting NATS air traffic control services at the Prestwick Centre is causing disruption to some flight departures and arrivals.
Passengers have been seen waiting for their flights at Manchester Airport this morningCredit: ZenpixNats have now fixed the issues, but delays are expected to continueCredit: Zenpix
“As a result, some services operating to and from our airports are experiencing delays, primarily at Glasgow Airport, and further disruption is expected due to the knock-on impact across the network.”
London City Airport said on X: “We are experiencing some disruption due to an issue at @NATS Prestwick.
“We are monitoring the situation closely and working with NATS as they resolve the issue.“
It also told passengers to check with their airline to find out the latest flight information.
Both London Gatwick and Stansted are “operating as normal”, the airports have confirmed, but a handful of departing flights may be delayed.
After over an hour of fixing delays, NATS has now confirmed the issue at its Prestwick centre in Scotland is now fixed.
Full list of airports facing delays following NATS outage
Aberdeen Airport
Belfast City Airport
Belfast International Airport
Bristol Airport
Glasgow Airport
Highlands and Islands Airport
Leeds Bradford Airport
Liverpool John Lennon Airport
London City Airport
London Gatwick Airport
London Stansted
Manchester Airport
Newcastle Airport
The air traffic control firm has apologised for today’s flight disruption and said it is working with airports and airlines to “minimise any further disruption”.
Transport Secretary also commented on the incident, calling the disruptions “deeply frustrating” and warning passengers of “some delays”.
TV host Jeff Brazier admits he has made too many mistakes bringing up sons Bobby and Freddy.
He became a single dad after his ex, Big Brother star Jade Goody, died from cervical cancer in 2009 aged just 27.
Jeff Brazier admits he has made mistakes bringing up sons Bobby (pictured) and FreddyCredit: HomeserveJeff says Bobby and Freddy would be better off if they were raised by the man he is today
Jeff — who has since had years of therapy — believes that if model Bobby, 23, and Race Across The World star Freddy, 21, had been raised by the man he is today, they may have escaped some of the trauma, turmoil and family fallouts.
He told the Sun on Sunday: “You always look back with hindsight and feel like, ‘If only I was the version of myself I am today 20 years ago, how much of a better experience of me they would have had’.
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“Maybe that might have eliminated some of the bumps in the road we’ve had . . . you look at the things you could have done better.”
Those “bumps” have at times proved particularly painful for Freddy, with much of the family tension centred around his close bond with his maternal grandmother Jackiey Budden, 69.
Jeff has always considered Jade’s mum to be a bad influence on the boys.
And Freddy, who has been to rehab, been sectioned and suffered manic episodes, has previously claimed Jackiey got him “hooked” on cannabis.
Things got so bad that last year, a concerned Jeff started legal proceedings in a bid to keep Jackiey away from his son.
Yet despite their clashes, Jeff and Freddy have always found their way back to each other — most recently in March following the arrival of Freddy’s daughter Isla with his on-off girlfriend Holly Swinburn.
The boys’ mum Jade Goody died from cervical cancer in 2009 aged just 27Credit: PA/PA PhotosJeff is now a proud grandad to Bobby’s daughter IslaCredit: Instagram
Jeff, 47, says: “Thanks to all the mistakes and all the lessons and the learnings along the way, I get to love Isla with a sense of confidence.
“The strength of connection you can have with a grandchild is really special.
“With Isla, it just feels natural, effortless and easy, and there’s no complications around it.”
Jeff can often be seen on This Morning, has worked with The One Show and TNT Sports and now fronts the Let’s Save Water campaign, urging families to make small changes to help tackle Britain’s shortage after the hot summer.
But the TV star admits he has struggled since his sons moved out of the family home in Essex.
“When they left, I went through nine months of what felt like absolute grief,” he admits.
“It’s not just the absence of your children. It’s more the grieving of the role that you played, that you got really comfortable playing.
“It felt like a slow relinquishing of control and responsibility, to the point where you feel redundant.
Jeff found fame on reality show Shipwrecked in 2001 before meeting Big Brother star JadeCredit: Rex FeaturesThe TV presenter says he found it tough after his sons grew up and moved out of homeCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
“Life is a lot quieter right now — the peace can be deafening — but there’s also part of you that’s, like, ‘Shouldn’t I be doing something for someone somewhere?’ ”
A CLOSED-off part of a major London landmark is opening to the public today after being shut for almost a century.
The Natural History Museum is letting visitors inside a hidden gallery that has been closed since World War II.
A new gallery will open to the public after 80 yearsCredit: Natural History MuseumInside are 50 objects linked to humans’ relationship with the natural worldCredit: David Parry/ Natural History Museum
Previously, it was used as a skeleton gallery, then closed in order to store a surviving botanical collection after the museum’s original herbarium was damaged during the war.
It completely closed in 1943 but reopened to the public earlier today.
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The new gallery is called ‘Nature and Us’ and on display are 50 specimens and objects all to do with humans’ relationship with the natural world.
This includes a miniature model of a Crystal Palace dinosaur, a Victorian skeleton of a monk seal and visitors can touch a replica jaw of one of Britain’s very first domesticated dogs.
There’s also a 400,000-year-old handaxe and a bryozoan-encrusted Star Wars toy.
Visitors will still be able to see the room’s original wooden cabinets from when it was used as a herbarium.
The gallery will remain open for 18 months, with some objects being moved to a permanent space in 2029. Those chosen will be based on visitor feedback.
Dr Doug Gurr, director of the museum, said: “It’s a wonderful space with a fascinating history, and we’re excited for visitors to discover it for themselves.
“Opening the doors is a really special moment for everyone involved in bringing this space back to life, and we can’t wait to see visitors exploring it for the first time.”
If you want to see the gallery, you’ll find it on the second floor of the South Kensington’sWaterhouse Building.
The Natural History Museum is completely free to visitCredit: Alamy
The reopening of the gallery is part of the NHM150 campaign which includes opening a new or revitalised gallery each year until 2031.
Another new attraction coming in 2027 will be a new permanent gallery specifically for young children.
It will be designed for four to seven-year-olds with lots of hands-on interactive experiences about the natural world.
The Natural History Museum is completely free to enter – if you want to guarantee entry at a certain time then make sure to book in advance.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel guidance for British nationals travelling to Thailand, with tighter visa-free stay restrictions for UK travellers coming into force on 15 September 2026, alongside revised weather warnings
The new rules came into force this morning(Image: Twenty47studio via Getty Images)
The Foreign Office has warned Brits to check their paperwork is in order as a country changes its entry rules.
As of today, Thailand’s entry system has changed. After two years running a generous scheme under which citizens of 93 countries and territories could enter visa-free for stays of up to 60 days, a harsher system has taken over. Effective this morning, the length of stay has been cut in half from 60 days to 30 days for many nationalities.
For US, UK, Australian and Canadian citizens, the principle remains straightforward: no visa is required for a tourist stay of up to 30 days in Thailand. However, the visa-free period has been halved from 60 to 30. If you want to stay in the country for longer than that, you’ll have to apply for an extension of up to 30 additional days. The Thai government has indicated that this should be granted.
Another major change is that the visa-free scheme now applies only to tourists. Those entering the country for work or other purposes now use the visa category corresponding to their activity.
The reform also reintroduces a restriction on land-border entries, with those using the 30-day visa exemption allowed only two land-border crossings per calendar year. Nationals of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore are not subject to this limit.
Ahead of the changes coming into effect today, the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) issued updated advice to Brits, a record-breaking million of whom visited Thailand last year. The government warned of the consequences of overstaying your visa or visa-free period.
“If you overstay the period of your visa, you will get a fine of 500 Thai baht a day up to a maximum of 20,000 baht. You risk being:
held in detention
deported at your own expense
banned from re-entering Thailand for up to 10 years
“Conditions in detention centres can be harsh.”
Thailand relaxed its visa rules in 2024, expanding the number of countries that qualified for visa-exemption, while extending the maximum length of stay to 60, in a bid to boost its tourism sector post-Covid. Tourism accounts for as much of 20% of the country’s GDP.
However, the rise in visitor numbers has caused tensions in the country. Back in May government spokesperson Rachada Dhanadirek told reporters that while tourism provided “benefits, such as boosting the economy”, the former visa scheme had allowed people to “exploit” the system. Foreigners overstaying and illegally operating businesses in tourism hotspots, without the proper permits, is a particular concern in parts of the country.
The full FCDO advice reads: “From 15 September 2026, if you enter Thailand under the visa exemption scheme, you can stay for up to 30 days for tourism. If you entered Thailand before 15 September 2026, you will usually be allowed to stay for the period granted when you arrived. If you want to stay longer, you must get the appropriate visa before you travel or, if eligible, apply for an extension through the Thai immigration authorities.
“You may be asked to show that you meet the entry requirements. This could include proof that you have enough money for your stay (at least 10,000 Thai baht per person or 20,000 Thai baht per family) and evidence of onward or return travel. British nationals have been refused entry for failing to provide this evidence.
“If you overstay your permission to stay in Thailand, you could be fined, detained, deported or banned from re-entering the country. Make sure you understand the conditions of your stay and get any visa extension you need before your permission expires.”
Alongside the entry guidance, the Foreign Office has revised its advice on Thailand’s rainy season and the dangers posed by heavy downpours.
The rainy season generally runs from May to October across most of the country, and from November to March in Koh Samui and south-east Thailand. However, the updated guidance warns that “weather patterns have become increasingly unpredictable and periods of intense rainfall can occur across Thailand.”
It continues: “Heavy rainfall can cause flash flooding, landslides and disruption to transport, particularly in northern, north-eastern and mountainous areas. Conditions can change rapidly and may result in road closures and local travel disruption. Lakes, caves and waterfalls are particularly at risk of dangerous flash flooding.”
Holidaymakers should follow instructions from local authorities and keep a close eye on weather warnings from the Thai Meteorological Department.
If you find yourself in need of a snack while wandering around Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District, consider heading over to the ultra-popular South African eatery, Tashas Cafe — without the apostrophe.
Tucked within the financial district, this international lifestyle cafe and casual dining restaurant chain is the first Tashas Cafe in Saudi Arabia.
Founded in 2005 by Natasha “Tasha” Sideris in Johannesburg, South Africa, it arrived in the Kingdom exactly 20 years later, in late 2025, after partnering with local food investment company Janiya.
Foodies in the UAE already know that it has been a popular spot in the Emirates since 2014, with several branches spread throughout.
The first thing I wanted to point out is that Tashas still uses real physical paper menus, which I love as someone who is not a fan of the QR code versions.
While many of the staples are the same — I went most recently to Tashas in Abu Dhabi — the Riyadh branch has some customized menu items catered specifically to this location, including a curated Night Menu and the largest cake display of any of their outlets worldwide.
It was quite noisy upon arrival, but I still managed to find a relatively quiet table near the bakery display area.
I started with the orchard drink for SR38 ($10), a revitalizing combination of green apple, lime and ginger.
I also got the Tashas sarmie, packed with goodies, including sauteed black mushrooms, grilled chicken breast, fresh avocado, and feta cheese served on toasted sourdough with a tiny side salad, for SR82. Delicious but a bit steep for a sandwich.
The surprising standout for me was the plate of asparagus, for SR36. It was legitimately better than any side I’ve had recently: crunchy, bright green, not at all overcooked or limp, and perfectly seasoned.
I asked the South African waiter to recommend a hot beverage to end the night and received a cup of warm spiced milk latte for SR32, which came with swirls of cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom and two orange peels floating within. It might have been the highlight of the meal.
Note that the cafe is located in Building 5.05 on Discovery Boulevard, so you will likely either need to walk a bit or use the valet option if you drive there. I opted to use a ride-share service as it was rush hour, which was a wise move.
For updates, check out their Instagram @tashascafeksa.
