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Michael Graham Named Vice Chairman

The National Transportation Safety Board announced that Member Michael Graham has been designated by President Trump to serve as Vice Chairman for a three-year term. Graham, the 45th NTSB member who took office in January 2020, brings extensive aviation safety experience from his prior role at Textron Aviation. This appointment fills the Vice Chairman position on the five-member board.

Automation Overreliance Causes Two Fatal Ford BlueCruise Crashes

The NTSB concluded its investigations into two fatal 2024 crashes involving Ford BlueCruise hands-free partial automation systems, finding that driver overreliance on automation contributed to both incidents. In the San Antonio crash, a Ford struck a stationary Honda CR-V, killing the Honda driver; in the Philadelphia crash, a Ford struck stationary vehicles killing two more drivers. The NTSB issued recommendations to DOT, NHTSA, and Ford calling for standardized performance requirements and improved data recording for Level 2 automation systems.

Unrepaired Gas Leaks Caused Pipeline Explosions in Mississippi

The NTSB determined that unrepaired gas leaks, identified by Atmos Energy Corporation, led to two natural gas pipeline explosions in Jackson, Mississippi, on January 24 and 27, 2024. The agency issued eight safety recommendations to Atmos to improve leak detection, repair procedures, and infrastructure risk assessment.

PHMSA Announces $98 Million for Pipeline Infrastructure Modernization

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) announced an investment of nearly $100 million through its Natural Gas Distribution Infrastructure Safety and Modernization grant program. This funding aims to repair, replace, or modernize aging and leak-prone natural gas distribution pipeline systems across the United States.

PHMSA Announces $86 Million in Grants for Pipeline Safety Programs

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) announced $86 million in grants for state pipeline safety programs for FY 2025. These funds will support state partners in inspecting the nation's pipeline network and enhancing safety.

Confirmation of Administrators for FHWA, NHTSA, and PHMSA

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced the confirmation of new administrators for the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). The Senate confirmed Sean McMaster for FHWA, Jonathan Morrison for NHTSA, and Paul Roberti for PHMSA.

PHMSA Implements Data-Driven Framework for Hazmat Transportation

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has released a new memorandum outlining a data-driven framework for its inspection and enforcement practices within the Office of Hazardous Materials Safety. This framework prioritizes outreach, inspection, and enforcement efforts based on data analysis to enhance hazardous materials transportation safety.

PHMSA Proposes Record $9.6 Million Fine Against Panther Operating Company

PHMSA has proposed a record $9.6 million civil penalty against Panther Operating Company, LLC, for alleged pipeline safety violations following a major crude oil spill in November 2023. The enforcement action includes a proposed compliance order to address future risks.

PHMSA Streamlines Regulations for Energy Products

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is issuing new rules and an enforcement policy to lower energy costs and enhance safety, expected to generate over $600 million in annualized cost savings. The changes modernize pipeline regulations and amend hazardous materials rules for fuel transportation.

NTSB: Improperly Secured Lithium-ion Batteries Caused Cargo Vessel Fires

The NTSB has released findings that improperly secured lithium-ion batteries caused two fires aboard the cargo vessel Genius Star XI, resulting in $3.8 million in damages. The investigation highlights the critical need for proper cargo securing and inspection to prevent thermal runaway events.