Mass layoffs spike in Kansas

The economy has taken a toll on Kansas businesses.

The state saw its mass layoff events spike dramatically, jumping from six in September to 18 in October, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The jump also means unemployment claims are also on the rise.

In September 478 unemployment claims were filed, but that number climbed to 2,543 in October.

The numbers are sure to increase in future labor department studies as well. Three of Wichita’s largest aircraft manufacturers recently announced mass layoffs. They include:

• Hawker Beechcraft Corp. — 490.

• Cessna Aircraft Co. — 500.

• The Boeing Co. (Integrated Defense Systems-Wichita) — 800

The department of labor defines a mass layoff as eliminating 50 or more jobs from the same company.