By| ANTONIO DEY | HGP Nightly News|
Caribbean Airlines: Fuel Surcharge Imposed Amid Skyrocketing Jet Fuel Prices
PORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD — Caribbean Airlines (CAL) has officially announced the introduction of a fuel surcharge on all regional and international routes, effective for all tickets purchased from April 10, 2026. The move comes as global jet fuel prices hit record highs due to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
- The Cost: Travelers can expect an additional fee ranging from $15 to $25, depending on the destination.
- Exemptions: Tickets purchased before April 10 will not be affected, and flights on the domestic air bridge between Trinidad and Tobago remain exempt from the surcharge.
- Global Trend: CAL officials stated that while base fares remain unchanged, the surcharge is a necessary “offset measure” being mirrored by major airlines worldwide to keep pace with operational costs.
Kenya Slams UN Report Alleging Sexual Abuse by Personnel in Haiti
NAIROBI, KENYA — Kenya’s Foreign Minister, Musalia Mudavadi, has issued a formal protest against a United Nations report alleging that Kenyan officers in the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission in Haiti were involved in sexual violence.
- The Allegations: The UN report documents four specific cases of rape and sexual violence, tragically involving three children. The report maintains these claims were substantiated by UN Human Rights investigations.
- The Denial: Minister Mudavadi labeled the claims “unsubstantiated,” asserting that internal investigations found no evidence of misconduct. He insisted that personnel have strictly adhered to the rules of engagement since their deployment began.
- Communication Breakdown: While the MSS Force Commander was reportedly notified of each allegation, the Kenyan government maintains that no identifying reports were provided to allow for a transparent cross-examination of the findings.
International: US Inflation Hits 2-Year High as Oil Prices Explode
WASHINGTON D.C. — The economic fallout from the US-Israel conflict is hitting American wallets hard, with inflation jumping to 3.3% in March—the highest rate in nearly two years. The surge is almost entirely driven by the energy crisis following the Strait of Hormuz shutdown.
- Pain at the Pump: Gas prices rose 21.2% in a single month, the largest jump since 1967. Fuel oil prices followed suit, rising 30%.
- Sector Ripple Effects: The cost of airline tickets and clothing also rose sharply as firms began passing higher transportation and tariff costs onto consumers.
- Food Outlook: While food prices remained stable in March, analysts warn of a “lag effect,” predicting a spike in grocery bills by summer as fertilizer and shipping costs continue to climb.
