'Predatory monopoly': Canadian North, feds criticized over new baggage fees

Canadian North and the federal government are facing criticism over major changes to the airline's baggage rates, effective on tickets booked as of Wednesday. Two weeks ago, the airline unveiled sweeping changes and increased costs. While passengers still receive their first bag for free, the cost of a second bag on the lowest ticket fare has jumped by 50%, and the cost of an overweight bag (anything over 51 pounds) has tripled on all fare types. "Because we have such a heavy reliance on airlines for transportation and cargo most of the year, it's a staggering impact on the cost of living," said former Nunavut senator Dennis Patterson. "It's well known that people always [maximize] their baggage allowances. And so to hit people who are bringing up essential goods that they can't otherwise get in the North when they're travelling from southern Canada is punitive. It's really punishing." Iqaluit resident Nicole Jackson echoed Patterson's concerns. She said while the changes don't affect her so much, people from smaller communities will be hit hard bringing goods up from the capital — particularly after Canada Post closed a loophole last month many communities were exploiting to gain access to Amazon's free shipping.<br/>