Korean Air Introduces Passenger Weight Measurement to Reduce Fuel Costs

In a proactive move to enhance aviation safety and optimize fuel efficiency, South Korean carrier Korean Air has announced plans to measure passengers’ body weights. The initiative aims to provide accurate data for aircraft weight distribution and reduce excess fuel consumption.

Starting from August 28 through September 6 2023, passengers on domestic flights will be asked to participate in the weight measuring process at boarding gates. For international flights, the measurement will occur between September 8 and 19. Notably, passengers who choose not to participate can simply inform staff and proceed to board as usual, with all measurement data collected anonymously.

These measurements align with regulations set by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, requiring air carriers to periodically provide the average weights of passengers on their aircraft to determine the standard weight for flight. By collecting precise weight data, airlines can formulate efficient weight distribution plans and strategies to reduce fuel costs.

Planes often carry surplus fuel, adding to their overall weight and fuel consumption. However, by accurately measuring passenger and luggage weights prior to departure, airlines can precisely calculate required fuel amounts, leading to reduced fuel consumption.

In a similar initiative conducted by Korean Air in 2017, average adult male passengers weighed around 81 kilograms, while average adult female passengers weighed about 69 kilograms.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, msn.com,koreaherald.com