Air New Zealand will conduct a weight survey this June, with more than 10,000 passengers expected to participate. The survey is a Civil Aviation Authority requirement for the airline and will evaluate the airline's safety and efficiency of operations.
Load Control Improvement Specialist Alastair James said that before every takeoff, the weight and balance of the loaded aircraft is something that the pilot needs to know.
"We weigh everything that goes on the aircraft – from the cargo to the meals onboard, to the luggage in the hold. We collect the average weights for customers, crew and cabin bags from doing this survey."
Customers on Air New Zealand's domestic network were weighed in 2021. Now that international travel is back up and running, it's time for international flyers to weigh in.
The last time that Air New Zealand weighed its passengers was in 2021, but the survey results were limited due to restricted international travel. The survey before that was conducted in 2015.
Air New Zealand stressed that there is nothing to fear for passengers who don’t want their weight broadcast to all, as all results will be kept confidential.
"We know stepping on the scales can be daunting. We want to reassure our customers there is no visible display anywhere. No one can see your weight, not even us. It's completely anonymous," said James.
"It's simple, voluntary, and by weighing in, you'll be helping us to fly you safely and efficiently every time."
The survey will commence between the 29th of May and the 2nd of July and will take place at the entrance of departure gates before boarding certain Air New Zealand flights.
