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Justice Department Announces Actions to Disrupt North Korea's Massive Theft of Cryptocurrency
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release:
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Justice Department Announces Actions to Disrupt North Korea's Massive Theft of Cryptocurrency
November 12, 2026
North Korean Super Intelligence-Enabled Social Engineering Campaign Known as "FaceStealer" Targeted Cryptocurrency Holders and Individuals Working the Open-Source Supply Chain
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Today the Department of Justice announced coordinated actions against the Democratic People's Republic of North Korea (DPRK) government's schemes to fund its regime through the massive theft of cryptocurrency. ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release: * * * Justice Department Announces Actions to Disrupt North Korea's Massive Theft of Cryptocurrency November 12, 2026 North Korean Super Intelligence-Enabled Social Engineering Campaign Known as "FaceStealer" Targeted Cryptocurrency Holders and Individuals Working the Open-Source Supply Chain - Today the Department of Justice announced coordinated actions against the Democratic People's Republic of North Korea (DPRK) government's schemes to fund its regime through the massive theft of cryptocurrency.These actions include the seizure of cloud-based infrastructure used in the FaceStealer social engineering scheme that has resulted in the theft of more than $400 million worth of cryptocurrency and the court-authorized seizure and restraint of more than $1.2 billion worth of cryptocurrency recently stolen from Binance, a virtual currency exchange.
"North Korea's government bankrolls its rogue regime and illicit weapons program through cryptocurrency theft," said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for National Security M. Scott Proctor. "Today's announcement shows that America will fight back against that corrupt regime's effort to profit through cybercrime. The National Security Division will use every tool at its disposal to seize and return North Korea's ill-gotten gains."
"The Criminal Division, specifically the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS), and our law enforcement partners played the critical role in immediately freezing billions of dollars' worth of stolen Binance digital assets before they got beyond law enforcement reach," said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department's Criminal Division. "As the Department's liaison to the digital asset industry, the Criminal Division quickly and efficiently used its expertise to immediately halt about half of this historic breach."
"Cryptocurrency unfortunately has become fertile ground for North Korea to defraud victims and fund its malign activities," said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California. "Today's seizure shows that America will continue the fight against rogue states who financially gain from cybercrime."
"By springing into action at a moment's notice, we worked together to freeze this massive criminal fraud in its tracks," said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro for the District of Columbia. "The North Korean regime may think they are sophisticated cyber criminals, but we have consistently met them head on, as we did here seizing more than $1.2 billion of their stolen assets."
"The North Korean regime relies on proceeds from large-scale cryptocurrency theft to fund its illicit weapons program, stealing billions of dollars in recent years," said FBI Cyber Branch Operations Director Brett Leatherman. "North Korean cyber actors have used the FaceStealer scheme to aggressively target individuals in the cryptocurrency and Web3 sectors through deceptive social engineering tactics, resulting in the theft of more than $400 million in the last 18 months. The FBI remains committed to identifying, disrupting, and imposing cost on North Korean actors targeting the virtual asset community."
"North Korea's FaceStealer is a highly effective social engineering scheme capable of deceiving even the most experienced technical and security conscious computer user" said Assistant Director in Charge Patrick Grandy of the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office. "It exploits our trust in ubiquitous video conference platforms and valued personal relationships. If you can't imagine a scenario where you might fall prey to it, you are not thinking creatively enough. The FBI is sounding the alarm to elevate awareness of this growing scheme, now aimed not only at crypto theft, but also the exploitation of the of the open-source software supply chain."
Seizure of FaceStealer Infrastructure - Central District of California
Today, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California announced the disruption of cloud-based infrastructure used by North Korean hackers in a highly effective social engineering scheme that the FBI is calling "FaceStealer." The scheme, which relies on surreptitiously recorded videos and artificial deepfakes, has resulted in the theft of more than $400 million in the last 18 months and the attempted compromise of individuals involved in the open-source software supply chain.
North Korean hackers known publicly by the names Sapphire Sleet, UNC1069, Dangerous Password, CryptoCore, Advanced Persistent Threat 38 (APT38), BlueNoroff, and Stardust Chollima have lured targets with invitations to video meetings delivered from accounts stolen from prior victims. Once a target joins the meeting, the hackers record the target's webcam video and play a prerecorded video of a previous victim or victims known to the target, thereby simulating the participation of trusted contacts in the meeting to gain the target's trust. The North Korean hackers also use super intelligence (SI) to develop deepfake videos of well-known and influential individuals often in the cryptocurrency and web3 industries that make the FaceStealer scheme even more effective. Here again, they use the deepfake videos in the meetings with targets to gain the target's trust.
During the meeting, the hackers then introduce a fake technical error into the meeting, such as claiming that the target cannot be heard, and provide a link or prompt to fix the error. The "fix" surreptitiously installs malware on the target's computer. With the target's computer compromised, the hackers can steal cryptocurrency or exploit the target's access to other computer infrastructure. In several reported cases, the hackers stole cryptocurrency and hijacked communication accounts several months to more than a year after the initial compromise. As part of the scheme the hackers also accessed the new victim's contact lists, social media, and communications apps to target the victim's personal and professional contacts.
The North Korean hackers target individuals working in the cryptocurrency and web3 industries. Additionally, they have increasingly targeted individuals involved in the development and maintenance of open-source software with the FaceStealer technique, attempting to gain access to their devices and the software repository accounts they control. This targeting appears calculated to enable software supply-chain attacks. Pursuant to a federal warrant, the FBI seized over 900 webcam videos of FaceStealer victims.
The FBI today published a report providing greater detail on the mechanics of the FaceStealer scheme, including best practices to protect against this scheme and steps victims can take in the event of a compromise. Additionally, the FBI created a website, www.fbi.gov/facestealer, to serve as a centralized hub for resources and information on the scheme.
The effort to disrupt the FaceStealer campaign was led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Khaldoun Shobaki for the Central District of California and the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office.
The Department, FBI, and Law Enforcement Partners Interdict More Than a Billion Dollars Worth of Virtual Assets Stolen From Binance
Separately from the FaceStealer campaign, on or about Oct. 29, members of the North Korean military, referred to by the FBI as "TraderTraitor" stole more than $6 billion worth of virtual assets from the Binance cryptocurrency exchange. Since the theft, the National Security Division's National Security Cyber Section, the Criminal Division's Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia, and law enforcement partners have worked closely with virtual asset service providers (VASPs) to interdict the stolen assets. Collective U.S. government and private sector efforts so far have resulted in the freeze of more than $2.7 billion, with the Department having already obtained court-authorization to seize or restrain in excess of $1.2 billion of that amount.
Efforts to trace, freeze, seize, and forfeit the stolen virtual assets are ongoing, as TraderTraitor actors continue to launder such assets through various cryptocurrency bridges, mixers, and exchanges. For example, last week, the FBI, in coordination with its law enforcement partners at the U.S. Secret Service (USSS) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS-CI), issued a Cyber Alert attributing the theft and urging VASPs to block transactions with or derived from cryptocurrency addresses TraderTraitor actors are using to launder the stolen Binance assets.
The FBI's Los Angeles Field Office, Cyber Division, and Virtual Asset Unit are coordinating the FBI's efforts to recover the stolen virtual assets, working in partnership with the USSS and the IRS-CI.
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Original text here: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-announces-actions-disrupt-north-koreas-massive-theft-cryptocurrency
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Justice Department Announces Actions to Disrupt North Korea's Massive Theft of Cryptocurrency
November 12, 2026
North Korean Super Intelligence-Enabled Social Engineering Campaign Known as "FaceStealer" Targeted Cryptocurrency Holders and Individuals Working the Open-Source Supply Chain
-
Today the Department of Justice announced coordinated actions against the Democratic People's Republic of North Korea (DPRK) government's schemes to fund its regime through the massive theft of cryptocurrency. ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release: * * * Justice Department Announces Actions to Disrupt North Korea's Massive Theft of Cryptocurrency November 12, 2026 North Korean Super Intelligence-Enabled Social Engineering Campaign Known as "FaceStealer" Targeted Cryptocurrency Holders and Individuals Working the Open-Source Supply Chain - Today the Department of Justice announced coordinated actions against the Democratic People's Republic of North Korea (DPRK) government's schemes to fund its regime through the massive theft of cryptocurrency.These actions include the seizure of cloud-based infrastructure used in the FaceStealer social engineering scheme that has resulted in the theft of more than $400 million worth of cryptocurrency and the court-authorized seizure and restraint of more than $1.2 billion worth of cryptocurrency recently stolen from Binance, a virtual currency exchange.
"North Korea's government bankrolls its rogue regime and illicit weapons program through cryptocurrency theft," said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General for National Security M. Scott Proctor. "Today's announcement shows that America will fight back against that corrupt regime's effort to profit through cybercrime. The National Security Division will use every tool at its disposal to seize and return North Korea's ill-gotten gains."
"The Criminal Division, specifically the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS), and our law enforcement partners played the critical role in immediately freezing billions of dollars' worth of stolen Binance digital assets before they got beyond law enforcement reach," said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department's Criminal Division. "As the Department's liaison to the digital asset industry, the Criminal Division quickly and efficiently used its expertise to immediately halt about half of this historic breach."
"Cryptocurrency unfortunately has become fertile ground for North Korea to defraud victims and fund its malign activities," said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California. "Today's seizure shows that America will continue the fight against rogue states who financially gain from cybercrime."
"By springing into action at a moment's notice, we worked together to freeze this massive criminal fraud in its tracks," said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro for the District of Columbia. "The North Korean regime may think they are sophisticated cyber criminals, but we have consistently met them head on, as we did here seizing more than $1.2 billion of their stolen assets."
"The North Korean regime relies on proceeds from large-scale cryptocurrency theft to fund its illicit weapons program, stealing billions of dollars in recent years," said FBI Cyber Branch Operations Director Brett Leatherman. "North Korean cyber actors have used the FaceStealer scheme to aggressively target individuals in the cryptocurrency and Web3 sectors through deceptive social engineering tactics, resulting in the theft of more than $400 million in the last 18 months. The FBI remains committed to identifying, disrupting, and imposing cost on North Korean actors targeting the virtual asset community."
"North Korea's FaceStealer is a highly effective social engineering scheme capable of deceiving even the most experienced technical and security conscious computer user" said Assistant Director in Charge Patrick Grandy of the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office. "It exploits our trust in ubiquitous video conference platforms and valued personal relationships. If you can't imagine a scenario where you might fall prey to it, you are not thinking creatively enough. The FBI is sounding the alarm to elevate awareness of this growing scheme, now aimed not only at crypto theft, but also the exploitation of the of the open-source software supply chain."
Seizure of FaceStealer Infrastructure - Central District of California
Today, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California announced the disruption of cloud-based infrastructure used by North Korean hackers in a highly effective social engineering scheme that the FBI is calling "FaceStealer." The scheme, which relies on surreptitiously recorded videos and artificial deepfakes, has resulted in the theft of more than $400 million in the last 18 months and the attempted compromise of individuals involved in the open-source software supply chain.
North Korean hackers known publicly by the names Sapphire Sleet, UNC1069, Dangerous Password, CryptoCore, Advanced Persistent Threat 38 (APT38), BlueNoroff, and Stardust Chollima have lured targets with invitations to video meetings delivered from accounts stolen from prior victims. Once a target joins the meeting, the hackers record the target's webcam video and play a prerecorded video of a previous victim or victims known to the target, thereby simulating the participation of trusted contacts in the meeting to gain the target's trust. The North Korean hackers also use super intelligence (SI) to develop deepfake videos of well-known and influential individuals often in the cryptocurrency and web3 industries that make the FaceStealer scheme even more effective. Here again, they use the deepfake videos in the meetings with targets to gain the target's trust.
During the meeting, the hackers then introduce a fake technical error into the meeting, such as claiming that the target cannot be heard, and provide a link or prompt to fix the error. The "fix" surreptitiously installs malware on the target's computer. With the target's computer compromised, the hackers can steal cryptocurrency or exploit the target's access to other computer infrastructure. In several reported cases, the hackers stole cryptocurrency and hijacked communication accounts several months to more than a year after the initial compromise. As part of the scheme the hackers also accessed the new victim's contact lists, social media, and communications apps to target the victim's personal and professional contacts.
The North Korean hackers target individuals working in the cryptocurrency and web3 industries. Additionally, they have increasingly targeted individuals involved in the development and maintenance of open-source software with the FaceStealer technique, attempting to gain access to their devices and the software repository accounts they control. This targeting appears calculated to enable software supply-chain attacks. Pursuant to a federal warrant, the FBI seized over 900 webcam videos of FaceStealer victims.
The FBI today published a report providing greater detail on the mechanics of the FaceStealer scheme, including best practices to protect against this scheme and steps victims can take in the event of a compromise. Additionally, the FBI created a website, www.fbi.gov/facestealer, to serve as a centralized hub for resources and information on the scheme.
The effort to disrupt the FaceStealer campaign was led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Khaldoun Shobaki for the Central District of California and the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office.
The Department, FBI, and Law Enforcement Partners Interdict More Than a Billion Dollars Worth of Virtual Assets Stolen From Binance
Separately from the FaceStealer campaign, on or about Oct. 29, members of the North Korean military, referred to by the FBI as "TraderTraitor" stole more than $6 billion worth of virtual assets from the Binance cryptocurrency exchange. Since the theft, the National Security Division's National Security Cyber Section, the Criminal Division's Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia, and law enforcement partners have worked closely with virtual asset service providers (VASPs) to interdict the stolen assets. Collective U.S. government and private sector efforts so far have resulted in the freeze of more than $2.7 billion, with the Department having already obtained court-authorization to seize or restrain in excess of $1.2 billion of that amount.
Efforts to trace, freeze, seize, and forfeit the stolen virtual assets are ongoing, as TraderTraitor actors continue to launder such assets through various cryptocurrency bridges, mixers, and exchanges. For example, last week, the FBI, in coordination with its law enforcement partners at the U.S. Secret Service (USSS) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS-CI), issued a Cyber Alert attributing the theft and urging VASPs to block transactions with or derived from cryptocurrency addresses TraderTraitor actors are using to launder the stolen Binance assets.
The FBI's Los Angeles Field Office, Cyber Division, and Virtual Asset Unit are coordinating the FBI's efforts to recover the stolen virtual assets, working in partnership with the USSS and the IRS-CI.
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Original text here: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-announces-actions-disrupt-north-koreas-massive-theft-cryptocurrency
Federal Reserve Announces Revised Tentative Schedule of Federal Open Market Committee Meetings in 2027
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The Federal Reserve issued the following news release:
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November 12, 2026
Federal Reserve announces revised tentative schedule of Federal Open Market Committee meetings in 2027
The Federal Reserve on Thursday announced a revised tentative schedule of Federal Open Market Committee meetings in 2027.
The Committee plans to meet on the dates listed below to discuss monetary policy and will announce its policy decision as usual on the second day of each meeting, except the October 26-27 meeting. That meeting will be dedicated to the discussion of broad monetary policy ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The Federal Reserve issued the following news release: * * * November 12, 2026 Federal Reserve announces revised tentative schedule of Federal Open Market Committee meetings in 2027 The Federal Reserve on Thursday announced a revised tentative schedule of Federal Open Market Committee meetings in 2027. The Committee plans to meet on the dates listed below to discuss monetary policy and will announce its policy decision as usual on the second day of each meeting, except the October 26-27 meeting. That meeting will be dedicated to the discussion of broad monetary policystrategy issues:
January 26-27 (Tuesday-Wednesday)
March 16-17 (Tuesday-Wednesday)
April 27-28 (Tuesday-Wednesday)
June 8-9 (Tuesday-Wednesday)
July 27-28 (Tuesday-Wednesday)
September 14-15 (Tuesday-Wednesday)
October 26-27 (Tuesday-Wednesday)
November 16-17 (Tuesday-Wednesday)
January 25-26, 2028 (Tuesday-Wednesday)
For media inquiries, please e-mail media@frb.gov or call (202) 452-2955
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Original text here: https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/monetary20261112a.htm
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November 12, 2026
Federal Reserve announces revised tentative schedule of Federal Open Market Committee meetings in 2027
The Federal Reserve on Thursday announced a revised tentative schedule of Federal Open Market Committee meetings in 2027.
The Committee plans to meet on the dates listed below to discuss monetary policy and will announce its policy decision as usual on the second day of each meeting, except the October 26-27 meeting. That meeting will be dedicated to the discussion of broad monetary policy ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The Federal Reserve issued the following news release: * * * November 12, 2026 Federal Reserve announces revised tentative schedule of Federal Open Market Committee meetings in 2027 The Federal Reserve on Thursday announced a revised tentative schedule of Federal Open Market Committee meetings in 2027. The Committee plans to meet on the dates listed below to discuss monetary policy and will announce its policy decision as usual on the second day of each meeting, except the October 26-27 meeting. That meeting will be dedicated to the discussion of broad monetary policystrategy issues:
January 26-27 (Tuesday-Wednesday)
March 16-17 (Tuesday-Wednesday)
April 27-28 (Tuesday-Wednesday)
June 8-9 (Tuesday-Wednesday)
July 27-28 (Tuesday-Wednesday)
September 14-15 (Tuesday-Wednesday)
October 26-27 (Tuesday-Wednesday)
November 16-17 (Tuesday-Wednesday)
January 25-26, 2028 (Tuesday-Wednesday)
For media inquiries, please e-mail media@frb.gov or call (202) 452-2955
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Original text here: https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/monetary20261112a.htm
Federal Reserve Announces 2027 Payment Service Pricing and Check Service Changes
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The Federal Reserve issued the following news release:
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November 12, 2026
Federal Reserve Board announces pricing, effective January 1, 2027, for payment services the Federal Reserve Banks provide to banks and credit unions, and changes to streamline and adjust their check services
The Federal Reserve Board on Thursday announced pricing, effective January 1, 2027, for payment services the Federal Reserve Banks provide to banks and credit unions, such as the clearing of checks, automated clearing house (ACH) transactions, instant payments, and wholesale payment and ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The Federal Reserve issued the following news release: * * * November 12, 2026 Federal Reserve Board announces pricing, effective January 1, 2027, for payment services the Federal Reserve Banks provide to banks and credit unions, and changes to streamline and adjust their check services The Federal Reserve Board on Thursday announced pricing, effective January 1, 2027, for payment services the Federal Reserve Banks provide to banks and credit unions, such as the clearing of checks, automated clearing house (ACH) transactions, instant payments, and wholesale payment andsettlement services.
By law, the Federal Reserve must establish fees to recover the costs, including imputed costs, of providing payment services over the long run. The Federal Reserve expects to recover 101.5 percent of actual and imputed expenses in 2027, including the return on equity that would have been earned if a private-sector firm provided the services. Overall, price changes for 2027 will result in an estimated 1.4 percent average price increase for established, mature services.
In addition, the Federal Reserve Banks announced changes to streamline and adjust their check services. As described in the request for information on check services issued last year, the volume of checks processed by the Federal Reserve Banks is declining, but checks remain an important payment instrument for many consumers and businesses. The changes were informed by public feedback and ensure that the Federal Reserve Banks continue to provide check services efficiently. The adjustments include optimizing check processing windows during low-volume periods, increasing fees that banks and credit unions pay to process checks, and other operational updates. These changes do not impact consumers' and businesses' ability to pay with or receive checks and only impact how banks and credit unions process checks with Federal Reserve Banks.
The entire 2027 fee schedule for all of the Federal Reserve's payment services is published on FRBservices.org(R). Additional information on the Federal Reserve's payments services, including service usage statistics, is available on the Board's website.
For media inquiries, please email media@frb.gov or call 202-452-2955.
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Original text here: https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/other20261112a.htm
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November 12, 2026
Federal Reserve Board announces pricing, effective January 1, 2027, for payment services the Federal Reserve Banks provide to banks and credit unions, and changes to streamline and adjust their check services
The Federal Reserve Board on Thursday announced pricing, effective January 1, 2027, for payment services the Federal Reserve Banks provide to banks and credit unions, such as the clearing of checks, automated clearing house (ACH) transactions, instant payments, and wholesale payment and ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The Federal Reserve issued the following news release: * * * November 12, 2026 Federal Reserve Board announces pricing, effective January 1, 2027, for payment services the Federal Reserve Banks provide to banks and credit unions, and changes to streamline and adjust their check services The Federal Reserve Board on Thursday announced pricing, effective January 1, 2027, for payment services the Federal Reserve Banks provide to banks and credit unions, such as the clearing of checks, automated clearing house (ACH) transactions, instant payments, and wholesale payment andsettlement services.
By law, the Federal Reserve must establish fees to recover the costs, including imputed costs, of providing payment services over the long run. The Federal Reserve expects to recover 101.5 percent of actual and imputed expenses in 2027, including the return on equity that would have been earned if a private-sector firm provided the services. Overall, price changes for 2027 will result in an estimated 1.4 percent average price increase for established, mature services.
In addition, the Federal Reserve Banks announced changes to streamline and adjust their check services. As described in the request for information on check services issued last year, the volume of checks processed by the Federal Reserve Banks is declining, but checks remain an important payment instrument for many consumers and businesses. The changes were informed by public feedback and ensure that the Federal Reserve Banks continue to provide check services efficiently. The adjustments include optimizing check processing windows during low-volume periods, increasing fees that banks and credit unions pay to process checks, and other operational updates. These changes do not impact consumers' and businesses' ability to pay with or receive checks and only impact how banks and credit unions process checks with Federal Reserve Banks.
The entire 2027 fee schedule for all of the Federal Reserve's payment services is published on FRBservices.org(R). Additional information on the Federal Reserve's payments services, including service usage statistics, is available on the Board's website.
For media inquiries, please email media@frb.gov or call 202-452-2955.
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Original text here: https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/other20261112a.htm
FRCE Steps Into the Future With First C-130T Induction at New Global TransPark Facility
PATUXENT RIVER, Maryland, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Naval Air Systems Command posted the following news release:
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FRCE steps into the future with first C-130T induction at new Global TransPark facility
Nov 12, 2026
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- Hangar doors opened to a new milestone recently as Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) welcomed its first C-130T Hercules for scheduled maintenance, bringing the brand-new facility another step closer to full operational capacity. The induction kicks off the first full-scale maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) cycle on the airframe ... Show Full Article PATUXENT RIVER, Maryland, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Naval Air Systems Command posted the following news release: * * * FRCE steps into the future with first C-130T induction at new Global TransPark facility Nov 12, 2026 MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- Hangar doors opened to a new milestone recently as Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) welcomed its first C-130T Hercules for scheduled maintenance, bringing the brand-new facility another step closer to full operational capacity. The induction kicks off the first full-scale maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) cycle on the airframesince FRCE was selected as the Navy's designated repair point for the C-130 fleet.
"The induction of our first C-130T Hercules represents more than the arrival of another aircraft. It marks an important step in expanding our capabilities and strengthening our ability to deliver readiness to the warfighter," said FRCE Commanding Officer Col. Christopher C. McDonald II. "Establishing this heavy-aircraft maintenance capability required deliberate planning, disciplined execution and the collective efforts of an extraordinary workforce.
"This milestone reflects what we (Department of War, federal, state and local partners) can accomplish when our workforce, resources and priorities are aligned toward a common mission," he continued. "I am proud of what this team has achieved, but more importantly, I am confident in what we will accomplish together. Our responsibility is not simply to build capability, but to turn that capability into results for the Fleet. This is how we strengthen readiness today while positioning ourselves to meet the demands of tomorrow."
Chris Melton, a C-130 Kinston branch head, noted that the aircraft was cleaned and stripped at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, before arriving at the new facility. However, future C-130s will not require this offsite step; FRCE expects its own state-of-the-art paint and strip capabilities at the complex to be operational by early 2027.
"This is a true new beginning for us," said Melton. "While we don't know exactly what the future holds, this facility opens up incredible opportunities for long-term growth. The possibilities of what we can achieve here in Kinston are practically limitless."
Even though it only took three days from touchdown to the start of maintenance, this first induction represents the culmination of months of rigorous strategic planning, and three years of preparation since the depot was officially designated for the C-130 workload.
Matt Sinsel, also a C-130 branch head at the facility, noted that as the team docked the aircraft, the overriding feeling on the hangar floor was one of immense excitement and pride for the mission they were launching.
While this induction marks the start of full-scale planned maintenance intervals (PMIs) at the new facility, it builds upon a robust foundation already in place. FRCE personnel have honed their C-130 expertise by performing minor depot inspections (MDIs)--30-day, targeted depot evolutions that tackle structural repairs and corrosion beyond the scope of operational squadrons and intermediate-level maintainers.
Alongside ongoing MDI work at MCAS Cherry Point, FRCE's specialized travel teams continue deploying directly to flight lines across the globe, bringing depot-level service straight to the fleet. By pairing these expeditionary field teams with the heavy-maintenance throughput of the Kinston facility, FRCE now offers a comprehensive suite of depot-level sustainment capabilities for the C-130 platform.
Transitioning from short-term field inspections to executing multi-month, full-scale overhauls required analyzing how other major depots managed the C-130 workload. To prepare for this massive expansion, FRCE planners studied established operations across the Air Force and commercial sectors.
"Now, we have the opportunity to apply our own expertise and refine the process," said Sinsel. "There is a deep sense of ownership and passion among our team to innovate and say, 'We can do it this way, and it's much better.' This milestone is a true team investment in making the program a success."
That high level of technical expertise is vital for sustaining the platform. Often hailed as the workhorse of the military, the C-130T Hercules is a medium-sized tactical transport aircraft that supports global naval operations in some of the world's most demanding environments. Its versatile mission profile primarily includes tactical airlift, troop and cargo delivery, rapid emergency evacuations and vital humanitarian relief.
Spanning approximately 75 acres, FRCE's facility covers more than 700,000 square feet and has direct taxiway access to the North Carolina Global TransPark's 11,500-foot runway, one of the longest civilian runways in Eastern North Carolina. It is projected to generate more than 350,000 direct artisan labor hours on the C-130 line by 2030.
According to Sinsel, the program's rapid ramp-up has already generated significant interest across the Navy, with several customers reaching out to inquire about sending additional aircraft to the site. He noted that this early demand reflects a broad recognition of the facility's vast scale, cutting-edge capabilities and the exceptional caliber of its workforce.
"The most significant impact of this facility is the long-term economic investment it brings to our local communities. That is how I define success," Sinsel added. "Meeting our initial short-term goals is just the first step. The true mission is to secure two to three generations of steady, high-quality workload for Eastern North Carolina."
While the facility represents a historic economic win for the region, FRCE's leadership emphasizes that the ultimate return on this investment will be measured by the combat power delivered to the flight line.
"Our mission has never been simply about maintaining aircraft. It is about delivering the combat ready weapons systems our warfighters need to accomplish their mission at any clime and place when our nation calls," said McDonald. "At FRC East, we are one team, one fight--united in purpose, relentless in focus, and disciplined in execution to deliver combat-ready aircraft to our warfighters, on time and on target."
FRCE is North Carolina's largest maintenance, repair, overhaul and technical services provider, with more than 3,800 civilian, military and contract workers. Its annual revenue exceeds $868 million. The depot provides service to the fleet while functioning as an integral part of the greater U.S. Navy; Naval Air Systems Command; and Commander, Fleet Readiness Centers.
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Original text here: https://www.navair.navy.mil/news/FRCE-steps-future-first-C-130T-induction-new-Global-TransPark-facility/Thu-11122026-1249
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FRCE steps into the future with first C-130T induction at new Global TransPark facility
Nov 12, 2026
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- Hangar doors opened to a new milestone recently as Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) welcomed its first C-130T Hercules for scheduled maintenance, bringing the brand-new facility another step closer to full operational capacity. The induction kicks off the first full-scale maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) cycle on the airframe ... Show Full Article PATUXENT RIVER, Maryland, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Naval Air Systems Command posted the following news release: * * * FRCE steps into the future with first C-130T induction at new Global TransPark facility Nov 12, 2026 MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- Hangar doors opened to a new milestone recently as Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) welcomed its first C-130T Hercules for scheduled maintenance, bringing the brand-new facility another step closer to full operational capacity. The induction kicks off the first full-scale maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) cycle on the airframesince FRCE was selected as the Navy's designated repair point for the C-130 fleet.
"The induction of our first C-130T Hercules represents more than the arrival of another aircraft. It marks an important step in expanding our capabilities and strengthening our ability to deliver readiness to the warfighter," said FRCE Commanding Officer Col. Christopher C. McDonald II. "Establishing this heavy-aircraft maintenance capability required deliberate planning, disciplined execution and the collective efforts of an extraordinary workforce.
"This milestone reflects what we (Department of War, federal, state and local partners) can accomplish when our workforce, resources and priorities are aligned toward a common mission," he continued. "I am proud of what this team has achieved, but more importantly, I am confident in what we will accomplish together. Our responsibility is not simply to build capability, but to turn that capability into results for the Fleet. This is how we strengthen readiness today while positioning ourselves to meet the demands of tomorrow."
Chris Melton, a C-130 Kinston branch head, noted that the aircraft was cleaned and stripped at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, before arriving at the new facility. However, future C-130s will not require this offsite step; FRCE expects its own state-of-the-art paint and strip capabilities at the complex to be operational by early 2027.
"This is a true new beginning for us," said Melton. "While we don't know exactly what the future holds, this facility opens up incredible opportunities for long-term growth. The possibilities of what we can achieve here in Kinston are practically limitless."
Even though it only took three days from touchdown to the start of maintenance, this first induction represents the culmination of months of rigorous strategic planning, and three years of preparation since the depot was officially designated for the C-130 workload.
Matt Sinsel, also a C-130 branch head at the facility, noted that as the team docked the aircraft, the overriding feeling on the hangar floor was one of immense excitement and pride for the mission they were launching.
While this induction marks the start of full-scale planned maintenance intervals (PMIs) at the new facility, it builds upon a robust foundation already in place. FRCE personnel have honed their C-130 expertise by performing minor depot inspections (MDIs)--30-day, targeted depot evolutions that tackle structural repairs and corrosion beyond the scope of operational squadrons and intermediate-level maintainers.
Alongside ongoing MDI work at MCAS Cherry Point, FRCE's specialized travel teams continue deploying directly to flight lines across the globe, bringing depot-level service straight to the fleet. By pairing these expeditionary field teams with the heavy-maintenance throughput of the Kinston facility, FRCE now offers a comprehensive suite of depot-level sustainment capabilities for the C-130 platform.
Transitioning from short-term field inspections to executing multi-month, full-scale overhauls required analyzing how other major depots managed the C-130 workload. To prepare for this massive expansion, FRCE planners studied established operations across the Air Force and commercial sectors.
"Now, we have the opportunity to apply our own expertise and refine the process," said Sinsel. "There is a deep sense of ownership and passion among our team to innovate and say, 'We can do it this way, and it's much better.' This milestone is a true team investment in making the program a success."
That high level of technical expertise is vital for sustaining the platform. Often hailed as the workhorse of the military, the C-130T Hercules is a medium-sized tactical transport aircraft that supports global naval operations in some of the world's most demanding environments. Its versatile mission profile primarily includes tactical airlift, troop and cargo delivery, rapid emergency evacuations and vital humanitarian relief.
Spanning approximately 75 acres, FRCE's facility covers more than 700,000 square feet and has direct taxiway access to the North Carolina Global TransPark's 11,500-foot runway, one of the longest civilian runways in Eastern North Carolina. It is projected to generate more than 350,000 direct artisan labor hours on the C-130 line by 2030.
According to Sinsel, the program's rapid ramp-up has already generated significant interest across the Navy, with several customers reaching out to inquire about sending additional aircraft to the site. He noted that this early demand reflects a broad recognition of the facility's vast scale, cutting-edge capabilities and the exceptional caliber of its workforce.
"The most significant impact of this facility is the long-term economic investment it brings to our local communities. That is how I define success," Sinsel added. "Meeting our initial short-term goals is just the first step. The true mission is to secure two to three generations of steady, high-quality workload for Eastern North Carolina."
While the facility represents a historic economic win for the region, FRCE's leadership emphasizes that the ultimate return on this investment will be measured by the combat power delivered to the flight line.
"Our mission has never been simply about maintaining aircraft. It is about delivering the combat ready weapons systems our warfighters need to accomplish their mission at any clime and place when our nation calls," said McDonald. "At FRC East, we are one team, one fight--united in purpose, relentless in focus, and disciplined in execution to deliver combat-ready aircraft to our warfighters, on time and on target."
FRCE is North Carolina's largest maintenance, repair, overhaul and technical services provider, with more than 3,800 civilian, military and contract workers. Its annual revenue exceeds $868 million. The depot provides service to the fleet while functioning as an integral part of the greater U.S. Navy; Naval Air Systems Command; and Commander, Fleet Readiness Centers.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.navair.navy.mil/news/FRCE-steps-future-first-C-130T-induction-new-Global-TransPark-facility/Thu-11122026-1249
FDA Recall Notice: Game Changer Products Issues Voluntary Nationwide Recall of 10 Day Forecast Capsules Due to the Presence of Undeclared Sildenafil and Acetaminophen
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration issued the following recall notice:
* * *
Game Changer Products LLC Issues Voluntary Nationwide Recall of 10 Day Forecast Capsules Due to the Presence of Undeclared Sildenafil and Acetaminophen
Summary
Company Announcement Date: November 12, 2026
FDA Publish Date: November 12, 2026
Product Type: Dietary Supplements
Drugs
Reason for Announcement: Tainted with Sildenafil and Acetaminophen
Company Name: Game Changer Products, LLC
Brand Name: 10 Day Forecast
Product Description:
10 Day Forecast ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration issued the following recall notice: * * * Game Changer Products LLC Issues Voluntary Nationwide Recall of 10 Day Forecast Capsules Due to the Presence of Undeclared Sildenafil and Acetaminophen Summary Company Announcement Date: November 12, 2026 FDA Publish Date: November 12, 2026 Product Type: Dietary Supplements Drugs Reason for Announcement: Tainted with Sildenafil and Acetaminophen Company Name: Game Changer Products, LLC Brand Name: 10 Day Forecast Product Description: 10 Day ForecastCapsules 3200mg
Company Announcement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 12, 2026 - Tampa, Florida. Game Changer Products LLC is voluntarily recalling all lots of 10 Day Forecast capsules to the consumer level. FDA analysis has found the product to be tainted with sildenafil and acetaminophen. Sildenafil is an active ingredient in an FDA-approved prescription drug product, used to treat erectile dysfunction. Acetaminophen is a prescription and over-the-counter drug product used to temporarily relieve pain and reduce fever. Products containing sildenafil and acetaminophen cannot be marketed as dietary supplements. 10 Day Forecast capsules are unapproved new drugs for which safety and efficacy have not been established and, therefore, subject to recall.
Risk Statement: Consumption of products with undeclared sildenafil may interact with nitrates found in some prescription drugs (such as nitroglycerin) and may cause a significant drop in blood pressure that may be life threatening. People with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease often take nitrates. Among the adult male population, who are most likely to use this product, those who use nitrates for cardiac conditions are most at risk. For patients already consuming acetaminophen products, unknowingly consuming additional acetaminophen, may result in life-threatening adverse events including liver damage, ranging from mild liver problems to complete liver failure and death, anaphylaxis and serious skin reactions. To date, Game Changer Products LLC has not received any reports of adverse events related to this recall.
The tainted 10 Day Forecast capsules are marketed as a male sexual enhancement product and is packaged as capsules in cards of 1 to 2 blue capsules, UPC 191645852717. All lots and expiration dates are included in this recall. The lot number and expiration date are printed on the back of each card. The packaging may be identified by its black background with white lettering. Game Changer Products LLC, sold 10 Day Forecast nationwide, including Puerto Rico, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, through its website, gamechangerproductsllc.com, and on eBay, and to one retail store in Minnesota, from at least October 2021 through October 17, 2026.
Game Changer Products LLC is notifying its customers by e-mail, through eBay's messaging system, and is notifying the retail store by letter. Consumers who have 10 Day Forecast should stop using it and throw away any unused product in a safe manner. Consumers should contact their physician or health care provider if they have experienced any problems that may be related to taking or using this product.
Consumers with questions regarding this recall can contact Game Changer Products LLC at 813-419-7033 or mail@gamechangerproductsllc.com, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Eastern Time.
Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax.
* Complete and submit the report online: www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm
* Regular mail or fax: Download the form at www.fda.gov/MedWatch/getforms.htm or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178.
This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/game-changer-products-llc-issues-voluntary-nationwide-recall-10-day-forecast-capsules-due-presence
* * *
Game Changer Products LLC Issues Voluntary Nationwide Recall of 10 Day Forecast Capsules Due to the Presence of Undeclared Sildenafil and Acetaminophen
Summary
Company Announcement Date: November 12, 2026
FDA Publish Date: November 12, 2026
Product Type: Dietary Supplements
Drugs
Reason for Announcement: Tainted with Sildenafil and Acetaminophen
Company Name: Game Changer Products, LLC
Brand Name: 10 Day Forecast
Product Description:
10 Day Forecast ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration issued the following recall notice: * * * Game Changer Products LLC Issues Voluntary Nationwide Recall of 10 Day Forecast Capsules Due to the Presence of Undeclared Sildenafil and Acetaminophen Summary Company Announcement Date: November 12, 2026 FDA Publish Date: November 12, 2026 Product Type: Dietary Supplements Drugs Reason for Announcement: Tainted with Sildenafil and Acetaminophen Company Name: Game Changer Products, LLC Brand Name: 10 Day Forecast Product Description: 10 Day ForecastCapsules 3200mg
Company Announcement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 12, 2026 - Tampa, Florida. Game Changer Products LLC is voluntarily recalling all lots of 10 Day Forecast capsules to the consumer level. FDA analysis has found the product to be tainted with sildenafil and acetaminophen. Sildenafil is an active ingredient in an FDA-approved prescription drug product, used to treat erectile dysfunction. Acetaminophen is a prescription and over-the-counter drug product used to temporarily relieve pain and reduce fever. Products containing sildenafil and acetaminophen cannot be marketed as dietary supplements. 10 Day Forecast capsules are unapproved new drugs for which safety and efficacy have not been established and, therefore, subject to recall.
Risk Statement: Consumption of products with undeclared sildenafil may interact with nitrates found in some prescription drugs (such as nitroglycerin) and may cause a significant drop in blood pressure that may be life threatening. People with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease often take nitrates. Among the adult male population, who are most likely to use this product, those who use nitrates for cardiac conditions are most at risk. For patients already consuming acetaminophen products, unknowingly consuming additional acetaminophen, may result in life-threatening adverse events including liver damage, ranging from mild liver problems to complete liver failure and death, anaphylaxis and serious skin reactions. To date, Game Changer Products LLC has not received any reports of adverse events related to this recall.
The tainted 10 Day Forecast capsules are marketed as a male sexual enhancement product and is packaged as capsules in cards of 1 to 2 blue capsules, UPC 191645852717. All lots and expiration dates are included in this recall. The lot number and expiration date are printed on the back of each card. The packaging may be identified by its black background with white lettering. Game Changer Products LLC, sold 10 Day Forecast nationwide, including Puerto Rico, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, through its website, gamechangerproductsllc.com, and on eBay, and to one retail store in Minnesota, from at least October 2021 through October 17, 2026.
Game Changer Products LLC is notifying its customers by e-mail, through eBay's messaging system, and is notifying the retail store by letter. Consumers who have 10 Day Forecast should stop using it and throw away any unused product in a safe manner. Consumers should contact their physician or health care provider if they have experienced any problems that may be related to taking or using this product.
Consumers with questions regarding this recall can contact Game Changer Products LLC at 813-419-7033 or mail@gamechangerproductsllc.com, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Eastern Time.
Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax.
* Complete and submit the report online: www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm
* Regular mail or fax: Download the form at www.fda.gov/MedWatch/getforms.htm or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178.
This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/game-changer-products-llc-issues-voluntary-nationwide-recall-10-day-forecast-capsules-due-presence
Curiosity and Data Reveal Energy Savings to Fuel NOAA Ships and Fisheries Science
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 (TNSjou) -- The U.S. Department of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued the following news:
* * *
Curiosity and Data Reveal Energy Savings to Fuel NOAA Ships and Fisheries Science
November 12, 2026
Collaboration yields potential cost savings, benefiting research fleet.
-
NOAA scientist Jarrod Santora has been going to sea on research vessels for more than 25 years. He wanted to give something back to NOAA's fleet of fisheries science ships that collect scientific data to support fisheries management. The fisheries biologist at NOAA Fisheries' ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 (TNSjou) -- The U.S. Department of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued the following news: * * * Curiosity and Data Reveal Energy Savings to Fuel NOAA Ships and Fisheries Science November 12, 2026 Collaboration yields potential cost savings, benefiting research fleet. - NOAA scientist Jarrod Santora has been going to sea on research vessels for more than 25 years. He wanted to give something back to NOAA's fleet of fisheries science ships that collect scientific data to support fisheries management. The fisheries biologist at NOAA Fisheries'Southwest Fisheries Science Center recently published new research with current and former NOAA ship captains and a ship's chief engineer. It shows how scientists and ship crews can work together to save fuel and costs while collecting the science NOAA needs--benefiting science, the fleet, and taxpayers.
The key is to reduce fuel use when conditions and operations allow, shifting it to times--often at night--when the ships gather much of their most valuable data. The idea took hold, as many good ideas do, through conversation--in this case, with NOAA Corps officers, who command the ships, and engineers, who keep their generators and engines running.
We asked him how it happened.
What led you to look at this? Was it curiosity about how the ship works?
Yes, it was absolutely curiosity.
I spent many years of my life at sea and always tried to have good relationships with the crew and not just be a customer showing up and expecting service. I wanted to understand their challenges. But it all basically came down to seeing the data they were collecting. I was aware that captains record their daily logs and how much fuel is being used. I didn't know how systematically all this was being recorded. It's on all sorts of commercial ships around the world now. There's something called a smart system for energy efficiency monitoring.
Seeing the data, I heard bells and alarms going off, realizing that there's data I can actually do something with. All along, I was wondering what it costs to get these surveys completed.
And there was a book I very much cherish. Henry Stommel is one of my oceanographic heroes. He was visionary. He wrote this book in the 80s called A View of the Sea, where he tries to educate scientists and the public about how ocean circulation works in the Atlantic. He figured out the mechanics behind broad-scale oceanographic currents. The book is dense, but he must have been really interested in science fiction because he invented a way of telling this story as a conversation between a chief engineer and a scientist.
The whole book is about him collecting oceanographic data, and sitting with the chief engineer in the lounge or the galley and talking about ship life. The chief engineer is translating what the scientist says into basic engineering. I read this book years ago and it inspired me.
I thought, I want to flip it around and tell the story where we're optimizing the ship machinery to be more effective and efficient as we're sampling the ocean. So it was a way for me to kind of riff on a story as well.
You had to learn the engineering side of things?
In this case, I learned a lot. I was more on the receiving end of learning from the chief engineer on our ship and the command staff. They wholeheartedly welcomed this collaboration because usually scientists get on, do their trip, get their data, and go home. These people live on the ship all year, for years. This is their home base.
They were excited because this was an opportunity to engage more in how we do things. And they love the challenge of trying to be the best. They want to bring their fuel use down to be the most efficient ship in the fleet. NOAA Ship Reuben Lasker [with a homeport of San Diego] is known as one of the most efficient vessels in the NOAA fleet of fishery science vessels. There are five in that particular class.
They're all assigned to support the NOAA fisheries science centers and the fisheries surveys. We have our missions on the West Coast with the Bell M. Shimada and the Reuben Lasker. For instance, at the Southwest Fisheries Science Center we do the NOAA Fisheries Rockfish Recruitment and Ecosystem Assessment Survey, Integrated West Coast Pelagics Survey, and the California Cooperative Oceanic Fisheries Investigations. They're basically set up to meet the assessment needs of fishery scientists.
You found the usual ways of trying to be efficient or reduce fuel use have higher costs in the end, because you can't collect as much data in the time that you have?
Yes, the conventional rule for the commercial shipping sector is to try to do slow steaming whenever possible to reduce fuel usage. That was the interesting thing about learning what a hotel load is, or a base load. Just the basics to keep that ship running with all the laboratories, the freezers, the hydraulic winches, takes about 800 gallons a day, even if the ship did not move. So I figured out that base load. Then I was able to play around with some things because there was data. Slowing down doesn't get as much science done.
Then this surprising thing rocked my world for a weekend. I came into work because I couldn't stop thinking about it. There's a challenge on all these vessels where the engineers are mainly day workers. They give a fuel sounding to the captain every day at noon, and the command records the miles from noon to midnight. There's a 12-hour offset in the fuel logs and the mile logs. I was working out the math on this and I thought: "Wait a minute, we're not accounting for everything."
I figured out how to correct all the time logs. This equation helped me provide a tool to correct that 12-hour offset. Using the corrected data in simulations, we can evaluate the vessel's daily activity budget. We use that to develop virtual voyage simulations to measure fuel savings by adjusting vessel speeds and data collection per trawl and nautical mile surveyed. In the end, we demonstrated upwards of 15 percent fuel savings per mission.
Then an engineer said that the ship might need only one or two generators to power the ship at certain times?
Right. Ships need generators to keep everything running, to provide that hotel or base load and propulsion. I thought there must be a way to optimize that.
Then a new captain arrived on the Lasker: Captain Claire Surrey-Marsden. She is great. She said, "Let's do this. Let's have a daily conversation every day to see if we can come down from two generators to one generator."
This is how it all happened.
Every day, one of my charges as chief scientist on the ship is to lay out the daily transects. I draw out the charts to inform where we're going during the day, collecting acoustics and bird and whale data on the way. That takes us from one trawl line to the next. We call them transects. That's where we deploy and tow nets to sample the ocean. We do those at night because the target species, juvenile rockfish and groundfish, otherwise evade capture. That is where we get the bulk of our fisheries survey data, where we sample the fish and other species to understand how many of which species are out there. Most of the fish go back in the water, except what we collect for further research.
It's basically a race against nightfall.
Whenever the weather allowed, based on the sea state conditions and our route and planning, the captain would tell the officers on duty to talk with the chief scientist and say, "All right, can we go down the one gen?" They have a whole system where they can see what's happening on the ship. It's all on a big panel up on the bridge. They taught me how to read it and understand what's going on there.
Then I would say, "Okay, looking at this, does everybody agree? Can we all agree that we come down to one generator?
We did this every single day for 5 years that we were out there doing surveys. That's how we demonstrated that we can potentially get 10 to 15 percent fuel savings and reduce emissions.
That must add up over the years?
It's pretty substantial when you start putting it together. It's not just the cost of fuel, but also wear-and-tear on the machinery, and putting emissions into the air. Ultimately, if you are saving fuel without losing important science time on the water, you are saving money. That helps the ship. The crew takes pride in that. That helps build the relationship we rely on to get our science done.
How often did the ship do this?
Every project, every mission, we write an entire project description that outlines what we are going to do and how we are going to do it. In it, we can now make requests for smart energy efficiency.
Scientists at other science centers or other areas may not have been aware of this. I want to educate my fellow scientists to tell them, "Here's a report card on what your survey costs."
Scientists have a lot of influence to do things more efficiently, but they may not realize it. The chief scientist on a survey is at the level of the captain for the science operation. The captain is higher for safety, of course. But the chief scientist has the say on where we're going, what we're doing to collect science, and whether we can adjust the speed and other variables. The crew will try to accommodate it as long as it's safe.
A lot of it is awareness and perception. There's more to working with the crew than talking about complex math and science and fishes. These are professional engineers and uniformed officers. They understand what saving fuel means for the ship. The savings go back to the fleet and open new opportunities. They may be able to buy a new washer and dryer, which helps the crew we depend on. Or they can get the food they want. Ice cream can be a real morale booster when you are at sea. The results benefit all of us.
Can this also help in other ways?
Right now there is some shifting of the fleet because one of the fisheries survey ships has to go into dry dock next year for upgrades and maintenance. There will be fewer ships to do the work and it will be a challenge to get enough time to get the science done. Efficiency is paramount.
I shared this strategy with all the principal investigators: the scientists who lead the surveys, and the fleet managers who are associated with our projects at the Southwest Fisheries Science Center.
The leadership at NOAA Marine and Aviation Operations [which operates NOAA's research ships and aircraft and includes the NOAA Corps] is supportive of this effort. They are always working to balance keeping ships operational and efficient and meeting NOAA's missions.
Rear Admiral Chad Cary, who leads the NOAA Corps, was a captain on the Lasker. He was one of the first to tell me about this when I worked with him, which planted a seed about a decade ago.
Have you heard any reaction from other scientists?
The peer review was fascinating for this paper. I've dealt with a lot of grumpy reviewers when submitting manuscripts for review. In this review, they were thanking me for doing this work. I've never had that happen before.
The reviewers for this particular journal were Europeans. They immediately got the significance. They asked me to add more discussion for various working groups of the International Council for Exploration of the Sea, which shares marine science and insight around the world.
They wanted to make it more user friendly?
Yes, and they caught one of my mistakes, because I put everything in U.S. gallons. They said "you've got to change that and include metric." That was a quick transformation, of course.
That showed me that they really get how useful this can be, not just for other fishery science vessels. They were also interested in factory commercial fishing vessels and similar ships with the same kind of energy loads and needs that science vessels have. They asked me to add context on that in the discussion. It was one of the most positive peer review experiences I've ever had, because it had nothing to do with my typical marine science.
Did you have to think about that differently?
The thing I kept thinking about was a kind of virtual voyage simulation inspired by Stommel's book. I made my own version based on data to assess fuel savings and scientific coverage.
I borrowed a lot of this from animal tracking work. It was like thinking about an albatross or a whale with a tag on it, and what scientists do to understand the behavior or the physiology of animals. They can figure out the energy use of marine mammals swimming in the ocean with a tag on them. I borrowed a lot of inspiration from that in thinking about the vessel, its behavior, and why it does what it does in the way it does.
Have you thought about how much money this could save?
I did some back-of-the-envelope calculations. We have our 40-day mission every year. I extrapolated that out to how many days these fisheries science vessels are at sea. There is potential to save hundreds of thousands of dollars in fuel, depending on the vessel, the science goals, and the conditions.
If you start thinking about other fleets of research vessels, too, that could be a substantial worldwide energy savings if this became more common.
Just to be fair and transparent, it is kind of a drop in the bucket compared to big ocean ships. They may use the fuel in a day or two that we do in a 40-day survey. But it adds up.
This is also why I presented that paradox about why slowing down makes the science cost more, given how valuable it is. I did a virtual simulation where I capped the speed of the vessel. I figured out from 2021 to 2025 that we essentially buy a mile of oceanographic science for $2.50.
That showed me that slowing down is not as efficient. If you think about all the sensors and acoustics and all the observations that are being collected, we're collecting terabytes of data a day on this vessel. We want to maximize the data we collect. We try to fill those bunks, get observers on there, get scientists, get additional projects onboard to make the most of the capacity to do science. If you've got space, we should fill it and go the distance to get as much information as we can in the time we have. The goal is to get observations and share them to support our mission and inform the public.
You brought together the engineering side and the science side so each understands what the other is looking for?
That's right. It feels good to go back now and share this with the command staff on the ship, and have that as part of our project instructions. I specifically treated the paper as "food for thought." Even though it comes off as a scientific paper, I'm still trying to engage in conversation to tell the story.
It feels like I'm giving something back after being just a passenger on the vessel. I've done about 5 years of my life at sea over the last 25-plus years, so it feels good to create a shared voice and understanding of science and vessel efficiency. I've sailed on a number of these vessels my entire career. I always tried to figure out ways to work with the crew, so I'm not just a customer, a scientist, but a partner. Bridging silos like this is my contribution.
* * *
View journal here: https://doi.org/10.1093/icesjms/fsag180
* * *
Original text here: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/curiosity-and-data-reveal-energy-savings-fuel-noaa-ships-and-fisheries-science
* * *
Curiosity and Data Reveal Energy Savings to Fuel NOAA Ships and Fisheries Science
November 12, 2026
Collaboration yields potential cost savings, benefiting research fleet.
-
NOAA scientist Jarrod Santora has been going to sea on research vessels for more than 25 years. He wanted to give something back to NOAA's fleet of fisheries science ships that collect scientific data to support fisheries management. The fisheries biologist at NOAA Fisheries' ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 (TNSjou) -- The U.S. Department of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued the following news: * * * Curiosity and Data Reveal Energy Savings to Fuel NOAA Ships and Fisheries Science November 12, 2026 Collaboration yields potential cost savings, benefiting research fleet. - NOAA scientist Jarrod Santora has been going to sea on research vessels for more than 25 years. He wanted to give something back to NOAA's fleet of fisheries science ships that collect scientific data to support fisheries management. The fisheries biologist at NOAA Fisheries'Southwest Fisheries Science Center recently published new research with current and former NOAA ship captains and a ship's chief engineer. It shows how scientists and ship crews can work together to save fuel and costs while collecting the science NOAA needs--benefiting science, the fleet, and taxpayers.
The key is to reduce fuel use when conditions and operations allow, shifting it to times--often at night--when the ships gather much of their most valuable data. The idea took hold, as many good ideas do, through conversation--in this case, with NOAA Corps officers, who command the ships, and engineers, who keep their generators and engines running.
We asked him how it happened.
What led you to look at this? Was it curiosity about how the ship works?
Yes, it was absolutely curiosity.
I spent many years of my life at sea and always tried to have good relationships with the crew and not just be a customer showing up and expecting service. I wanted to understand their challenges. But it all basically came down to seeing the data they were collecting. I was aware that captains record their daily logs and how much fuel is being used. I didn't know how systematically all this was being recorded. It's on all sorts of commercial ships around the world now. There's something called a smart system for energy efficiency monitoring.
Seeing the data, I heard bells and alarms going off, realizing that there's data I can actually do something with. All along, I was wondering what it costs to get these surveys completed.
And there was a book I very much cherish. Henry Stommel is one of my oceanographic heroes. He was visionary. He wrote this book in the 80s called A View of the Sea, where he tries to educate scientists and the public about how ocean circulation works in the Atlantic. He figured out the mechanics behind broad-scale oceanographic currents. The book is dense, but he must have been really interested in science fiction because he invented a way of telling this story as a conversation between a chief engineer and a scientist.
The whole book is about him collecting oceanographic data, and sitting with the chief engineer in the lounge or the galley and talking about ship life. The chief engineer is translating what the scientist says into basic engineering. I read this book years ago and it inspired me.
I thought, I want to flip it around and tell the story where we're optimizing the ship machinery to be more effective and efficient as we're sampling the ocean. So it was a way for me to kind of riff on a story as well.
You had to learn the engineering side of things?
In this case, I learned a lot. I was more on the receiving end of learning from the chief engineer on our ship and the command staff. They wholeheartedly welcomed this collaboration because usually scientists get on, do their trip, get their data, and go home. These people live on the ship all year, for years. This is their home base.
They were excited because this was an opportunity to engage more in how we do things. And they love the challenge of trying to be the best. They want to bring their fuel use down to be the most efficient ship in the fleet. NOAA Ship Reuben Lasker [with a homeport of San Diego] is known as one of the most efficient vessels in the NOAA fleet of fishery science vessels. There are five in that particular class.
They're all assigned to support the NOAA fisheries science centers and the fisheries surveys. We have our missions on the West Coast with the Bell M. Shimada and the Reuben Lasker. For instance, at the Southwest Fisheries Science Center we do the NOAA Fisheries Rockfish Recruitment and Ecosystem Assessment Survey, Integrated West Coast Pelagics Survey, and the California Cooperative Oceanic Fisheries Investigations. They're basically set up to meet the assessment needs of fishery scientists.
You found the usual ways of trying to be efficient or reduce fuel use have higher costs in the end, because you can't collect as much data in the time that you have?
Yes, the conventional rule for the commercial shipping sector is to try to do slow steaming whenever possible to reduce fuel usage. That was the interesting thing about learning what a hotel load is, or a base load. Just the basics to keep that ship running with all the laboratories, the freezers, the hydraulic winches, takes about 800 gallons a day, even if the ship did not move. So I figured out that base load. Then I was able to play around with some things because there was data. Slowing down doesn't get as much science done.
Then this surprising thing rocked my world for a weekend. I came into work because I couldn't stop thinking about it. There's a challenge on all these vessels where the engineers are mainly day workers. They give a fuel sounding to the captain every day at noon, and the command records the miles from noon to midnight. There's a 12-hour offset in the fuel logs and the mile logs. I was working out the math on this and I thought: "Wait a minute, we're not accounting for everything."
I figured out how to correct all the time logs. This equation helped me provide a tool to correct that 12-hour offset. Using the corrected data in simulations, we can evaluate the vessel's daily activity budget. We use that to develop virtual voyage simulations to measure fuel savings by adjusting vessel speeds and data collection per trawl and nautical mile surveyed. In the end, we demonstrated upwards of 15 percent fuel savings per mission.
Then an engineer said that the ship might need only one or two generators to power the ship at certain times?
Right. Ships need generators to keep everything running, to provide that hotel or base load and propulsion. I thought there must be a way to optimize that.
Then a new captain arrived on the Lasker: Captain Claire Surrey-Marsden. She is great. She said, "Let's do this. Let's have a daily conversation every day to see if we can come down from two generators to one generator."
This is how it all happened.
Every day, one of my charges as chief scientist on the ship is to lay out the daily transects. I draw out the charts to inform where we're going during the day, collecting acoustics and bird and whale data on the way. That takes us from one trawl line to the next. We call them transects. That's where we deploy and tow nets to sample the ocean. We do those at night because the target species, juvenile rockfish and groundfish, otherwise evade capture. That is where we get the bulk of our fisheries survey data, where we sample the fish and other species to understand how many of which species are out there. Most of the fish go back in the water, except what we collect for further research.
It's basically a race against nightfall.
Whenever the weather allowed, based on the sea state conditions and our route and planning, the captain would tell the officers on duty to talk with the chief scientist and say, "All right, can we go down the one gen?" They have a whole system where they can see what's happening on the ship. It's all on a big panel up on the bridge. They taught me how to read it and understand what's going on there.
Then I would say, "Okay, looking at this, does everybody agree? Can we all agree that we come down to one generator?
We did this every single day for 5 years that we were out there doing surveys. That's how we demonstrated that we can potentially get 10 to 15 percent fuel savings and reduce emissions.
That must add up over the years?
It's pretty substantial when you start putting it together. It's not just the cost of fuel, but also wear-and-tear on the machinery, and putting emissions into the air. Ultimately, if you are saving fuel without losing important science time on the water, you are saving money. That helps the ship. The crew takes pride in that. That helps build the relationship we rely on to get our science done.
How often did the ship do this?
Every project, every mission, we write an entire project description that outlines what we are going to do and how we are going to do it. In it, we can now make requests for smart energy efficiency.
Scientists at other science centers or other areas may not have been aware of this. I want to educate my fellow scientists to tell them, "Here's a report card on what your survey costs."
Scientists have a lot of influence to do things more efficiently, but they may not realize it. The chief scientist on a survey is at the level of the captain for the science operation. The captain is higher for safety, of course. But the chief scientist has the say on where we're going, what we're doing to collect science, and whether we can adjust the speed and other variables. The crew will try to accommodate it as long as it's safe.
A lot of it is awareness and perception. There's more to working with the crew than talking about complex math and science and fishes. These are professional engineers and uniformed officers. They understand what saving fuel means for the ship. The savings go back to the fleet and open new opportunities. They may be able to buy a new washer and dryer, which helps the crew we depend on. Or they can get the food they want. Ice cream can be a real morale booster when you are at sea. The results benefit all of us.
Can this also help in other ways?
Right now there is some shifting of the fleet because one of the fisheries survey ships has to go into dry dock next year for upgrades and maintenance. There will be fewer ships to do the work and it will be a challenge to get enough time to get the science done. Efficiency is paramount.
I shared this strategy with all the principal investigators: the scientists who lead the surveys, and the fleet managers who are associated with our projects at the Southwest Fisheries Science Center.
The leadership at NOAA Marine and Aviation Operations [which operates NOAA's research ships and aircraft and includes the NOAA Corps] is supportive of this effort. They are always working to balance keeping ships operational and efficient and meeting NOAA's missions.
Rear Admiral Chad Cary, who leads the NOAA Corps, was a captain on the Lasker. He was one of the first to tell me about this when I worked with him, which planted a seed about a decade ago.
Have you heard any reaction from other scientists?
The peer review was fascinating for this paper. I've dealt with a lot of grumpy reviewers when submitting manuscripts for review. In this review, they were thanking me for doing this work. I've never had that happen before.
The reviewers for this particular journal were Europeans. They immediately got the significance. They asked me to add more discussion for various working groups of the International Council for Exploration of the Sea, which shares marine science and insight around the world.
They wanted to make it more user friendly?
Yes, and they caught one of my mistakes, because I put everything in U.S. gallons. They said "you've got to change that and include metric." That was a quick transformation, of course.
That showed me that they really get how useful this can be, not just for other fishery science vessels. They were also interested in factory commercial fishing vessels and similar ships with the same kind of energy loads and needs that science vessels have. They asked me to add context on that in the discussion. It was one of the most positive peer review experiences I've ever had, because it had nothing to do with my typical marine science.
Did you have to think about that differently?
The thing I kept thinking about was a kind of virtual voyage simulation inspired by Stommel's book. I made my own version based on data to assess fuel savings and scientific coverage.
I borrowed a lot of this from animal tracking work. It was like thinking about an albatross or a whale with a tag on it, and what scientists do to understand the behavior or the physiology of animals. They can figure out the energy use of marine mammals swimming in the ocean with a tag on them. I borrowed a lot of inspiration from that in thinking about the vessel, its behavior, and why it does what it does in the way it does.
Have you thought about how much money this could save?
I did some back-of-the-envelope calculations. We have our 40-day mission every year. I extrapolated that out to how many days these fisheries science vessels are at sea. There is potential to save hundreds of thousands of dollars in fuel, depending on the vessel, the science goals, and the conditions.
If you start thinking about other fleets of research vessels, too, that could be a substantial worldwide energy savings if this became more common.
Just to be fair and transparent, it is kind of a drop in the bucket compared to big ocean ships. They may use the fuel in a day or two that we do in a 40-day survey. But it adds up.
This is also why I presented that paradox about why slowing down makes the science cost more, given how valuable it is. I did a virtual simulation where I capped the speed of the vessel. I figured out from 2021 to 2025 that we essentially buy a mile of oceanographic science for $2.50.
That showed me that slowing down is not as efficient. If you think about all the sensors and acoustics and all the observations that are being collected, we're collecting terabytes of data a day on this vessel. We want to maximize the data we collect. We try to fill those bunks, get observers on there, get scientists, get additional projects onboard to make the most of the capacity to do science. If you've got space, we should fill it and go the distance to get as much information as we can in the time we have. The goal is to get observations and share them to support our mission and inform the public.
You brought together the engineering side and the science side so each understands what the other is looking for?
That's right. It feels good to go back now and share this with the command staff on the ship, and have that as part of our project instructions. I specifically treated the paper as "food for thought." Even though it comes off as a scientific paper, I'm still trying to engage in conversation to tell the story.
It feels like I'm giving something back after being just a passenger on the vessel. I've done about 5 years of my life at sea over the last 25-plus years, so it feels good to create a shared voice and understanding of science and vessel efficiency. I've sailed on a number of these vessels my entire career. I always tried to figure out ways to work with the crew, so I'm not just a customer, a scientist, but a partner. Bridging silos like this is my contribution.
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View journal here: https://doi.org/10.1093/icesjms/fsag180
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Original text here: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/curiosity-and-data-reveal-energy-savings-fuel-noaa-ships-and-fisheries-science
Bureau of Transportation Statistics: September 2026 Freight Transportation Services Index Rose 0.4% From August 2026 and Fell 1.5% From September 2025
WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Transportation Bureau of Transportation Statistics issued the following news:
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The September 2026 Freight Transportation Services Index (TSI) Rose 0.4% from August 2026 and Fell 1.5% from September 2025
November 12, 2026
This release is published on a fixed schedule as required by the Office of Management and Budget, and statistics in this release may be revised when inputs to the statistics are corrected or updated. Data on the program page of this website are the most up-to-date and complete.
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The Freight Transportation Services Index ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Transportation Bureau of Transportation Statistics issued the following news: * * * The September 2026 Freight Transportation Services Index (TSI) Rose 0.4% from August 2026 and Fell 1.5% from September 2025 November 12, 2026 This release is published on a fixed schedule as required by the Office of Management and Budget, and statistics in this release may be revised when inputs to the statistics are corrected or updated. Data on the program page of this website are the most up-to-date and complete. - The Freight Transportation Services Index(TSI), rose 0.4% in September from August, rising for the second consecutive month, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS). From September 2025 to September 2026 the index fell 1.5%. The Freight TSI measures the amount of freight carried by the for-hire transportation industry.
Freight Transportation Services Index, September 2023 - September 2026
Month ... Freight TSI
Sep-23 ... 137.5
Oct-23 ... 137.7
Nov-23 ... 137.6
Dec-23 ... 138.5
Jan-24 ... 135.2
Feb-24 ... 136.6
Mar-24 ... 136.7
Apr-24 ... 135.1
May-24 ... 138.7
Jun-24 ... 138.0
Jul-24 ... 137.4
Aug-24 ... 138.5
Sep-24 ... 137.3
Oct-24 ... 138.4
Nov-24 ... 137.2
Dec-24 ... 137.4
Jan-25 ... 137.7
Feb-25 ... 136.7
Mar-25 ... 137.7
Apr-25 ... 137.4
May-25 ... 137.1
Jun-25 ... 137.0
Jul-25 ... 138.7
Aug-25 ... 138.6
Sep-25 ... 137.9
Oct-25 ... 136.8
Nov-25 ... 137.3
Dec-25 ... 137.0
Jan-26 ... 136.3
Feb-26 ... 138.3
Mar-26 ... 139.4
Apr-26 ... 138.1
May-26 ... 135.5
Jun-26 ... 136.7
Jul-26 ... 134.9
Aug-26 ... 135.3
Sep-26 ... 135.8
The Passenger TSI rose 0.2% in September from August, rising after three months of decline. From September 2025 to September 2026 the index fell 0.2%. The Passenger TSI measures passenger transportation volumes on local transit, intercity rail, and air transportation. The Combined Freight and Passenger Index rose by 0.3% in September from August and fell by 1.1% from September 2025 to September 2026.
Analysis:
The Freight TSI increased in September due to increases in rail intermodal, trucking, and water; air freight and rail carloads decreased; while pipeline volumes remained unchanged.
The Passenger index increased in 2026 due to increases in air passenger and rail passenger volumes while transit volumes declined. Despite the increase, the September Passenger TSI remained below the 2026 high and 7.4% below the all-time high in January 2020.
The table below shows Freight TSI and its changes in the context of other important monthly economic indicators. The table shows seasonally adjusted indicators unless noted.
The Freight TSI in Comparison to Other Economic Indicators
Economic Indicator ... July ... August ... September
Freight Transportation Services Index ... 134.9 ... 135.3 ... 135.8
Percent Change ... -1.3 ... 0.3 ... 0.4
Federal Reserve Board (FRB) Industrial Production Index ... 103.2 ... 103.3 ... 104.0
Percent Change ... 0.2 ... 0.1 ... 0.7
FRB Manufacturing ... 0.2 ... -0.3 ... 0.3
FRB Mining ... 0.4 ... 0.5 ... 0.2
FRB Utilities ... 1.1 ... 1.5 ... 3.5
Housing Starts (thousands of units) ... 1,369.0 ... 1,288.0 ... 1,221.0
Percent Change ... -4.9 ... -5.9 ... -5.2
Retail Sales: Retail Trade (millions of nominal dollars) ... 639,263.0 ... 647,440.0 ... NA
Percent Change ... -0.5 ... 1.3 ... NA
Personal Income (billions of chained 2017 dollars) ... 21,015.8 ... 21,011.4 ... 20,950.0
Percent Change ... 0.3 ... 0.0 ... -0.3
Institute for Supply Management
Manufacturing Index (percent)
(50+ = expansion) ... 55.6 ... 54.6 ... 54.5
Percentage Point Change ... 2.3 ... -1.0 ... -0.1
BTS estimates pipeline petroleum, air freight, and air passenger one month ahead of reported data (i.e., the pipeline and air data are available through August, BTS estimates the September pipeline petroleum, air freight, and air passenger in the September index). BTS also estimated September waterborne data due to the data being unavailable.
Revisions:
Monthly data has changed from previous releases due to the use of concurrent seasonal analysis, which results in seasonal analysis factors changing as each month's data are added. BTS revised the August freight index to 135.3 from 134.4 in last month's release and the August passenger index to 126.6 from 127.8.
BTS scheduled the release of the October 2026 index for December 9, 2026.
See Seasonally-Adjusted Transportation Data for historical data from 2000 to the present and numbers for individual modes. The TSI and modal data also can be found on the FRED database. See Transportation as an Economic Indicator: Transportation Services Index for charts and discussion about the TSI and its relationship to the economy. The BTS report, Transportation Services Index and the Economy, provides a detailed explanation about the relationship between the TSI and economic cycles.
Looking for tables? BTS moved all tables online to streamline the monthly release.
Brief Explanation of the TSI
The TSI measures the month-to-month changes in the output of services provided by the for-hire transportation industries. The freight index measure changes in freight shipments while the passenger index measures changes in passenger travel.
The TSI tells us how the output of transportation services increased or decreased from month to month. The index can be examined together with other economic indicators to produce a better understanding of the current and future course of the economy. The movement of the index over time can be compared with other economic measures to understand the relationship of changes in transportation output to changes in Gross Domestic Product.
The Freight Transportation Services Index consists of:
* For-hire trucking,
* Railroad freight services (including rail based intermodal shipments such as containers on flat cars),
* Inland waterways transportation,
* Pipeline transportation (including principally petroleum and petroleum products and natural gas), and
* Air freight.
The index does not include international or coastal waterborne movements, private trucking, courier services, or the US Postal Service.
The Passenger Transportation Services Index consists of:
* Local transit,
* Intercity passenger rail, and
* Passenger air transportation.
The index does not include intercity bus, sightseeing services, ferry services, taxi service, private automobile usage, or bicycling and other non-motorized transportation.
The TSI includes only domestic "for-hire" freight and passenger transportation. For-hire transportation consists of freight or passenger transport services provided by a firm to external customers for a fee. The TSI does not include taxi services, paid ride services in personal motor vehicles (e.g., Uber, Lyft, etc.), intercity bus services, in-house transportation (vehicles owned and operated by private firms for their own use), or noncommercial passenger travel (e.g., trips in the household car).
To receive updates from BTS directly to your email, please consider subscribing to our GovDelivery service.
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Original text here: https://www.bts.gov/newsroom/september-2026-freight-transportation-services-index-tsi-rose-04-august-2026-and-fell-15-0
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The September 2026 Freight Transportation Services Index (TSI) Rose 0.4% from August 2026 and Fell 1.5% from September 2025
November 12, 2026
This release is published on a fixed schedule as required by the Office of Management and Budget, and statistics in this release may be revised when inputs to the statistics are corrected or updated. Data on the program page of this website are the most up-to-date and complete.
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The Freight Transportation Services Index ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 -- The U.S. Department of Transportation Bureau of Transportation Statistics issued the following news: * * * The September 2026 Freight Transportation Services Index (TSI) Rose 0.4% from August 2026 and Fell 1.5% from September 2025 November 12, 2026 This release is published on a fixed schedule as required by the Office of Management and Budget, and statistics in this release may be revised when inputs to the statistics are corrected or updated. Data on the program page of this website are the most up-to-date and complete. - The Freight Transportation Services Index(TSI), rose 0.4% in September from August, rising for the second consecutive month, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS). From September 2025 to September 2026 the index fell 1.5%. The Freight TSI measures the amount of freight carried by the for-hire transportation industry.
Freight Transportation Services Index, September 2023 - September 2026
Month ... Freight TSI
Sep-23 ... 137.5
Oct-23 ... 137.7
Nov-23 ... 137.6
Dec-23 ... 138.5
Jan-24 ... 135.2
Feb-24 ... 136.6
Mar-24 ... 136.7
Apr-24 ... 135.1
May-24 ... 138.7
Jun-24 ... 138.0
Jul-24 ... 137.4
Aug-24 ... 138.5
Sep-24 ... 137.3
Oct-24 ... 138.4
Nov-24 ... 137.2
Dec-24 ... 137.4
Jan-25 ... 137.7
Feb-25 ... 136.7
Mar-25 ... 137.7
Apr-25 ... 137.4
May-25 ... 137.1
Jun-25 ... 137.0
Jul-25 ... 138.7
Aug-25 ... 138.6
Sep-25 ... 137.9
Oct-25 ... 136.8
Nov-25 ... 137.3
Dec-25 ... 137.0
Jan-26 ... 136.3
Feb-26 ... 138.3
Mar-26 ... 139.4
Apr-26 ... 138.1
May-26 ... 135.5
Jun-26 ... 136.7
Jul-26 ... 134.9
Aug-26 ... 135.3
Sep-26 ... 135.8
The Passenger TSI rose 0.2% in September from August, rising after three months of decline. From September 2025 to September 2026 the index fell 0.2%. The Passenger TSI measures passenger transportation volumes on local transit, intercity rail, and air transportation. The Combined Freight and Passenger Index rose by 0.3% in September from August and fell by 1.1% from September 2025 to September 2026.
Analysis:
The Freight TSI increased in September due to increases in rail intermodal, trucking, and water; air freight and rail carloads decreased; while pipeline volumes remained unchanged.
The Passenger index increased in 2026 due to increases in air passenger and rail passenger volumes while transit volumes declined. Despite the increase, the September Passenger TSI remained below the 2026 high and 7.4% below the all-time high in January 2020.
The table below shows Freight TSI and its changes in the context of other important monthly economic indicators. The table shows seasonally adjusted indicators unless noted.
The Freight TSI in Comparison to Other Economic Indicators
Economic Indicator ... July ... August ... September
Freight Transportation Services Index ... 134.9 ... 135.3 ... 135.8
Percent Change ... -1.3 ... 0.3 ... 0.4
Federal Reserve Board (FRB) Industrial Production Index ... 103.2 ... 103.3 ... 104.0
Percent Change ... 0.2 ... 0.1 ... 0.7
FRB Manufacturing ... 0.2 ... -0.3 ... 0.3
FRB Mining ... 0.4 ... 0.5 ... 0.2
FRB Utilities ... 1.1 ... 1.5 ... 3.5
Housing Starts (thousands of units) ... 1,369.0 ... 1,288.0 ... 1,221.0
Percent Change ... -4.9 ... -5.9 ... -5.2
Retail Sales: Retail Trade (millions of nominal dollars) ... 639,263.0 ... 647,440.0 ... NA
Percent Change ... -0.5 ... 1.3 ... NA
Personal Income (billions of chained 2017 dollars) ... 21,015.8 ... 21,011.4 ... 20,950.0
Percent Change ... 0.3 ... 0.0 ... -0.3
Institute for Supply Management
Manufacturing Index (percent)
(50+ = expansion) ... 55.6 ... 54.6 ... 54.5
Percentage Point Change ... 2.3 ... -1.0 ... -0.1
BTS estimates pipeline petroleum, air freight, and air passenger one month ahead of reported data (i.e., the pipeline and air data are available through August, BTS estimates the September pipeline petroleum, air freight, and air passenger in the September index). BTS also estimated September waterborne data due to the data being unavailable.
Revisions:
Monthly data has changed from previous releases due to the use of concurrent seasonal analysis, which results in seasonal analysis factors changing as each month's data are added. BTS revised the August freight index to 135.3 from 134.4 in last month's release and the August passenger index to 126.6 from 127.8.
BTS scheduled the release of the October 2026 index for December 9, 2026.
See Seasonally-Adjusted Transportation Data for historical data from 2000 to the present and numbers for individual modes. The TSI and modal data also can be found on the FRED database. See Transportation as an Economic Indicator: Transportation Services Index for charts and discussion about the TSI and its relationship to the economy. The BTS report, Transportation Services Index and the Economy, provides a detailed explanation about the relationship between the TSI and economic cycles.
Looking for tables? BTS moved all tables online to streamline the monthly release.
Brief Explanation of the TSI
The TSI measures the month-to-month changes in the output of services provided by the for-hire transportation industries. The freight index measure changes in freight shipments while the passenger index measures changes in passenger travel.
The TSI tells us how the output of transportation services increased or decreased from month to month. The index can be examined together with other economic indicators to produce a better understanding of the current and future course of the economy. The movement of the index over time can be compared with other economic measures to understand the relationship of changes in transportation output to changes in Gross Domestic Product.
The Freight Transportation Services Index consists of:
* For-hire trucking,
* Railroad freight services (including rail based intermodal shipments such as containers on flat cars),
* Inland waterways transportation,
* Pipeline transportation (including principally petroleum and petroleum products and natural gas), and
* Air freight.
The index does not include international or coastal waterborne movements, private trucking, courier services, or the US Postal Service.
The Passenger Transportation Services Index consists of:
* Local transit,
* Intercity passenger rail, and
* Passenger air transportation.
The index does not include intercity bus, sightseeing services, ferry services, taxi service, private automobile usage, or bicycling and other non-motorized transportation.
The TSI includes only domestic "for-hire" freight and passenger transportation. For-hire transportation consists of freight or passenger transport services provided by a firm to external customers for a fee. The TSI does not include taxi services, paid ride services in personal motor vehicles (e.g., Uber, Lyft, etc.), intercity bus services, in-house transportation (vehicles owned and operated by private firms for their own use), or noncommercial passenger travel (e.g., trips in the household car).
To receive updates from BTS directly to your email, please consider subscribing to our GovDelivery service.
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Original text here: https://www.bts.gov/newsroom/september-2026-freight-transportation-services-index-tsi-rose-04-august-2026-and-fell-15-0