Investing.com -- Delta Air Lines Inc. will implement a 4% pay increase for its employees this year, matching the raise given in 2025. The pay increase marks the fifth consecutive annual raise for workers and will cost the airline $500 million, according to a statement released Friday.

The announcement comes as airlines face elevated oil prices stemming from the war in the Middle East. The surge in fuel costs has pressured carrier margins and prompted airlines to reassess their expansion strategies.