Finnair introduces controversial passenger weighing policy, sparking heated online debate
The weighing of passengers is scheduled to take place in February, April, and May of the current year. The announcement that Finnair's passengers will be weighed before they board has caused significant controversy online. Nonetheless, the airline highlighted in an official statement that airlines routinely calculate the plane's weight and its contents to ensure safe travel.
In fairness, it's important to note that only volunteer passengers will be weighed, and the entire process will be managed with utmost respect for passengers' privacy. According to a Finnair representative, the first set of weight measurements occurred a few days ago at a Helsinki airport. To date, more than 500 volunteers have participated in the weigh-in.
Despite the airline's good intentions, this initiative has not gained the support of internet users, who argue that weighing passengers will only lead to overweight individuals feeling embarrassed. There have even been statements from people vowing never to use Finnair's services again.
I never weigh myself by choice, I won't let an airline now force me to do so; your policy is appalling; no plane has ever crashed due to passenger weight; I will never board your plane again - we read.
In an interview with the Huffington Post, Finnair's Director of Communications, Päivyt Tallqvist, has stated that the airline prioritises safety during flight, and detailed weight data is crucial for the aircraft's performance.
