TORONTO – Several Canadian airlines are adding surcharges to passenger bookings in response to increasing jet fuel costs, as reported by CBC News on Tuesday.

Air Canada Vacations is adding a $50 surcharge to all sunny destination packages, effective immediately. Porter Airlines has introduced a $40 fuel surcharge to VIP points bookings, while WestJet will apply a $60 surcharge to all companion voucher bookings starting Wednesday.

Rising Food Prices Linked to Middle East Conflict

CBC News reported that food prices across Canada are expected to increase, driven by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. According to a Winnipeg grocery store owner, Monther Zaid, fuel surcharges from shippers and suppliers are being passed on to consumers. He noted the price of a two-pound bag of onions increased from 75 cents to $1 within a couple of weeks. The cost of diesel fuel has jumped 40% since the war began, impacting the entire food supply chain.

Shoppers in rural and remote communities are expected to be particularly affected by the price increases. Experts suggest that buying local, seasonal produce as the Canadian growing season begins may help mitigate the impact on grocery budgets.

Artemis II Crew Shares Stunning Lunar Images

NASA has released images captured by the Artemis II crew during their lunar flyby. The astronauts took approximately 10,000 photos of the moon’s surface and Earth, capturing areas previously unseen by humans. The crew also conducted the first ship-to-ship communication with the International Space Station, and U.S. President Donald Trump congratulated the crew, specifically mentioning Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen.

Increase in Invasive Meningococcal Disease Cases

Data compiled by CBC News indicates a rise in invasive meningococcal disease cases across Canada, reaching the highest level in over a decade. In 2025, at least 155 cases were reported countrywide, with a concentration in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec. Health officials recommend vaccination, noting that vaccine coverage rates have recently declined.

Alberta First Nation Challenges Separation Referendum

The Stergeon Lake Cree Nation in Alberta is seeking an injunction to halt a petition advocating for a referendum on Alberta’s separation from Canada. The First Nation argues that a referendum would violate its treaty rights. The case is currently before the courts.

Other News

U.S. Trade Representative Jameson Greer anticipates that negotiations for the Canada-United States-Mexico agreement will extend beyond the July 1st deadline, citing unresolved issues with Canada. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a list of infrastructure projects to be funded by the federal government, totaling $300 million in federal funding. Canada is also facing a labour shortage in the housing construction sector. The UK has banned American rapper Kanye West from entering the country.