If stepping on the scale gives you anxiety, you may want to avoid flying with Air New Zealand. The country’s national airline has introduced a new campaign that involves passengers weighing themselves.
Don’t worry; the weigh-in is entirely optional, but New Zealand’s Civil Aviation Authority would like the data to further enhance aircraft security.
“We weigh everything that goes on the aircraft, from the cargo to the meals onboard, to the luggage in the hold,” explains Air New Zealand’s load control improvement specialist, Alistair James. “For customers, crew, and cabin bags, we use average weights, which we get from doing this survey.”
Passengers come in all shapes and sizes (and weights), with 93 kilograms estimated for men, and 75 kilograms for women. By having a more accurate figure, airline staff can load fuel accordingly. Less weight means less fuel which results in fewer carbon emissions.
And for those feeling self-conscious, James has reassurance.
“We know stepping on the scales can be daunting. We want to reassure our customers [that] there is no visible display anywhere. No one can see your weight — not even us. It’s completely anonymous.”
Those departing from Auckland International Airport from now until July 2 will be invited onto the scales with their hand luggage.