Airlines

Our Takeaway: Plus-size travelers, especially woman activists believe that they are marginalized and discriminated against by airlines and other suppliers and hacks alone will not be enough.

As society continues to put a greater emphasis on the need for inclusive and accessible travel for all people, the aviation industry is taking small steps toward change. There is still work that needs to be done, however, especially when it comes to size inclusivity. Aircraft cabin features including seats, aisles and lavatories make it glaringly obvious that there is a disparity when considering accessibility for plus-size travelers. Although this lack of consideration can be frustrating, influencer KirstyLeanneTravels gave her followers a simple, yet effective strategy to obtain a second plane seat at no extra cost. In a video posted to her TikTok, Kirsty approaches a flight attendant and asks, “Do you know if there are any two seats next to each other free?” The flight attendant tells her that once all travelers have boarded the aircraft, she will check. The TikTok then pans to Kristy on the plane sitting in the extra seat she asked for. Read More.

Our Takeaway: While this was a survey to determine the true average passenger weight in order to calculate the amount of freight, they will be able to accommodate, we hope this is just a one-off event. If this catches on, privacy litigation can’t be far behind.

Airline passengers are well accustomed to weighing their luggage and keeping bags light ahead of departure, but many travelers flying with one airline will soon be asked to step on the scales themselves. Yes, you read that correctly — passengers themselves will be weighed. Throughout the month of June, all Air New Zealand passengers travelling internationally from Auckland airport will be asked to step on the scales to participate in the airline’s passenger weight survey. Read More.