DHS jets underused: Seven Boeing 737-700 jets purchased by the Department of Homeland Security for hundreds of millions of dollars to support President Donald Trump’s deportation campaign have seen little use while sitting at Lake Charles Regional Airport. Each plane has been flown on fewer than five flights since April, and DHS is now seeking to repurpose four for congressional delegations, leaving the future of the remaining aircraft uncertain. The underused fleet raises questions about government spending and operational efficiency, particularly as Immigration and Customs Enforcement continues relying on contractors for flights rather than maintaining its own aircraft, pilots and support staff. Bloomberg has the full story.
Amazon adding jobs: Amazon plans to hire more than 300,000 seasonal, part-time and full-time workers across the U.S. for the holiday season, a 20% increase from its 250,000-worker hiring target last year. Job openings will be posted weekly from October through December as retailers and delivery companies, including UPS, ramp up staffing to meet holiday demand. Amazon’s seasonal employees earn an average of $20 per hour and may qualify for health care coverage starting at $5 per week if they work at least 30 hours weekly, with opportunities to transition into full-time positions. The Wall Street Journal has the full story.
Value bundled: Walmart is launching a $120 annual joint membership combining Walmart+ and Sam’s Club Plus, offering customers nearly $100 in savings compared with purchasing both memberships separately. Benefits include free delivery from both retailers, access to Sam’s Club warehouses, streaming subscriptions, gas discounts and 2% Sam’s Club cash on eligible purchases as Walmart seeks to attract budget-conscious shoppers with greater convenience and value. The move builds on growth in the company’s membership business, with global membership revenue rising 17% in the fiscal second quarter and Sam’s Club e-commerce sales increasing 26%. CNBC has the full story.
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