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Canada’s Jobless Rate Rises to 6.8% Despite December Hiring

          A employee sorts batteries on a conveyor belt at a recycling facility in Port Colborne, Ontario. Canada’s unemployment rate climbed to 6.8% in December , even though the economy added 8,200 jobs during the month. The increase in unemployment wasn’t driven by widespread layoffs but by a surge in the number of people entering the labour force and actively looking for work. December Highlights Unemployment rate: Up from 6.5% to 6.8% Employment: Net gain of 8,200 jobs Labour force: Expanded significantly, outpacing job creation Full-time work: Increased Part-time work: Declined Why the Rate Rose Economists point out that the rise in unemployment reflects renewed labour market participation , not a weakening economy. More Canadians felt confident enough to start job hunting, but hiring didn’t keep pace with the influx of job seekers. This marks the fourth straight month of employment growth , yet December also saw the largest increas...

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Delta Airlines Increases Checked-Baggage Fees by 17%


              

In a move that may prompt travelers to reconsider their packing strategies, Delta Airlines has just raised the cost of checking your first bag by 17%. The previous fee of $30 for domestic flights now increases by $5, bringing it to $35. Additionally, the charge for a second checked bag has risen from $40 to $45.

Delta’s decision follows similar fee hikes by other major U.S. carriers. Both American Airlines and United Airlines announced their own increases in February, and smaller carriers like Alaska Airlines and JetBlue Airways have also adjusted their fees recently. This trend of carriers adjusting their pricing in response to one another is often referred to as “herd instinct” by behavior analysts.

While passengers with status perks can still check their first bag for free, and those with first-class tickets can check two bags without charge, the majority of travelers will feel the impact of these fee adjustments. Baggage fees have become a reliable source of revenue for airlines, especially since their introduction in 2008 when jet fuel prices were soaring. In 2022, U.S. airlines collectively earned $6.8 billion from checked-bag fees, with American and United leading the way at $1.4 billion and $1.1 billion, respectively. Delta followed closely in third place with $979.4 million.

As travelers prepare for their next flights, it’s essential to stay informed about these changes and consider how they might affect travel budgets. Whether you’re a seasoned flyer or a first-time traveler, keep an eye on those baggage fees—they’re more significant than ever.


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