Finnair's controversial passenger weighing initiative sparks uproar on social media
This passenger weighing initiative is scheduled to occur in February, April, and May of this year. The news that Finnair's passengers will be weighed prior to boarding has stirred a significant uproar online. Nonetheless, the airline clarified in an official statement that this initiative aims to calculate the plane's weight, including its interior, to assure safe transit.
10:16 AM EST, February 9, 2024
However, it's important to mention that only volunteers will be subjected to this weighing process, which will be conducted while ensuring the passengers' privacy. According to a Finnair spokesperson, the initial weight measurements were performed a few days ago at a Helsinki airport. To date, over 500 volunteers have taken part in the weighing initiative.
Finnish airlines face backlash
Despite the airline's good intentions, this initiative hasn't garnered the approval of internet users. Critics argue that weighing passengers will only serve to embarrass those who are overweight. Some individuals have even stated outright that they will never use Finnair's services as a result.
"I never weigh myself by choice, I won't let an airline force me to do this; your policy is appalling; no plane has ever crashed because of passengers' weight; I will never board your plane again," reads one online comment.
In an interview with the Huffington Post, Finnair's Director of Communications, Päivyt Tallqvist, emphasized that his organization prioritizes flight safety, and detailed data on weight is crucial for the aircraft's performance.
