Air New Zealand requires the weight of passengers traveling internationally

Travel

By Chantelle Francis, News.com.au

May 30, 2023 | 6:45 p.m

Air New Zealand will require the weight of passengers traveling internationally in June.

The information will be collected to help the airline determine average passenger weights going forward when calculating the aircraft’s weight and balance – which all pilots need to know before take off.

Alistair James, Air New Zealand’s load control optimization specialist, assured passengers it was voluntary and their weight would not be displayed for anyone to see at the airport.

“We weigh everything on board – from cargo to meals on board, to baggage in the aircraft hold,” explained Mr. James.

“For customers, crew and cabin bags, we use the average weights we get from taking this survey.”

Passengers were weighed domestically in 2021, and now the airline is focusing on passengers traveling internationally.

They will be required to be weighed at the gate lounge entrance for some Air New Zealand flights departing from Auckland International Airport until 2 July.

“We know walking on the scale 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!” said Mr. James.

“It’s simple, it’s voluntary, and by its weight, you’ll help us fly you safely and effectively, every time.”

Air New Zealand told news.com.au it needed a minimum of 10,000 passengers to take part, and the survey was a requirement of the Civil Aviation Authority.