Passengers flying with Korean Air will soon be required to step on weighing scales before boarding their flights, as part of efforts by regulators in Seoul to update aircraft weight and balance standards. Weigh stations will be set up at Seoul’s Gimpo Airport for domestic passengers from August 28 to September 6, and at Incheon Airport for international passengers from September 8 to 19.
The purpose of this initiative is to gather data on the weight of each passenger, including their carry-on luggage. This information will then be provided to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, which will use it to calculate the average weight of a typical passenger. This data will be used to develop regulations on seating arrangements and determine the amount of extra fuel required for each flight.
It is important to note that Korean Air has assured passengers that overweight individuals will not be required to pay more for their tickets. Additionally, all collected data will be anonymized to protect individuals’ privacy. However, despite these assurances, some members of the public have expressed concerns about potential fat-shaming at the airport.
This move by Korean Air follows a similar initiative by Air New Zealand, which also asked passengers to step on weighing scales before flying. Air New Zealand deemed this survey as “essential” for the safe and efficient operation of their aircraft.
To provide some context, according to 2021 data, the average weight of an adult male in South Korea is 74.1kg (163.4lb), while the average female weighs 58.6kg (129lb). In comparison, the average weight of an American adult is considerably higher, with males weighing in at 90.6 kg (199.7 lb) and females weighing 77.5 kg (170.9 lb), according to 2018 figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
By collecting accurate data on passenger weights, airlines can better ensure the safety and efficiency of their flights. This information helps determine the optimal seating arrangements and fuel requirements, contributing to a smoother travel experience for everyone on board.
In conclusion, Korean Air’s decision to introduce weigh stations for passengers is aimed at updating aircraft weight and balance standards. The data collected will be used to develop regulations and enhance safety measures. While concerns of fat-shaming have been raised, the airline has stated that these measures will not result in extra charges for overweight passengers. Ultimately, the goal is to improve the overall flying experience for passengers and ensure safer flights.
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