Passengers looking to travel via Air New Zealand may have to start counting calories before boarding their flight.
The airline has recently announced that they will begin weighing travelers before they board a flight, though it is not mandatory. The company says it wants to weigh 10,000 passengers during the monthlong survey to better properly balance weight on international flights. Per a statement, having a more accurate calculation of the poundage on their planes can better help determine how much fuel they’ll need.
While this move may be off-putting to passengers, especially in the age of body positivity, Air New Zealand is not breaking any laws by implementing this new limited-time policy. The Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand, which oversees aircraft operations, approves of the move. As part of their duties, the organization monitors weight reporting. The baggage of each passenger is largely taken into account.
“By weighing in, you’ll be helping us fly safely and efficiently every time,” assured Alastair James, who serves as Air New Zealand Load Control Improvement Specialist. He also stated that passengers had nothing to worry about with the policy.
The passengers will not have to worry about others around them learning their weight. After stepping on the scale, that information is recorded anonymously as part of a survey that tracks aircraft weights. No names or other identifying factors will be placed in the database. Customers do have the right to decline being weighed without repercussions.
The first passengers of the program were weighed on Monday. The scales will remain out until July 2nd.
