Airlines

Air New Zealand announces plan to weigh passengers before boarding

The recent announcement of Air New Zealand’s new policy of weighing international passengers prior to takeoff.

Air New Zealand will conduct a global weight survey between May 29 and July 2, 2023, in which it will ask more than 10,000 international travelers to stand on a scale. The airline calls the weigh-in an “essential” activity, saying that the country’s civil aviation authority mandates weight surveys be carried out every five years to review the weight load and distribution for flights.

Air New Zealand Adds Japan and Samoa Recovery Flights(Opens in a new browser tab)

Alastair James, Load Control Improvement Specialist at Air New Zealand, emphasizes that the pilot must know the weight and balance of the loaded aircraft before each take-off. “We weigh everything that goes on the plane, from cargo to meals on board to luggage in the hold.”We use average weights obtained from this study for customers, crew, and cabin luggage.”

There’s nothing to worry about for customers who hesitate to step onto the scales. Getting on the scales may be daunting, as we all know. There is no display anywhere, and we wish to reassure our customers of that. Nobody, not even us, is able to see your weight! According to Mr. James, it is entirely anonymous. By participating, you will help us fly you safely and effectively each time. It’s easy and voluntary.

Airlines

Virgin Atlantic Introduces Sign Language Crew Booking for Inclusive Flights

Virgin Atlantic has set a new standard for inclusivity in air travel by becoming the first UK airline to offer British Sign Language (BSL)-trained crew members on its flights.

As part of its commitment to ensuring every customer has a positive and accessible travel experience, Virgin Atlantic teamed up with deaf Gladiators star Jodie Ounsley and deaf twin content creators Hermon and Heroda Berhane. Together, they helped the airline better understand the needs of its deaf and hard of hearing passengers.

Air India to Roll Out New Guidelines for Cabin Crew

The airline tested its BSL services on a flight from London Heathrow to Washington, with the experience captured in a special film to mark International Week of Deaf People. The BSL-trained crew greeted passengers with Virgin Atlantic’s signature warm welcome, assisted with in-flight navigation, alerted passengers to important announcements, and provided accessible in-flight entertainment options.

Virgin Atlantic’s efforts don’t stop there. The airline has committed to increasing subtitled in-flight entertainment options, enhancing clarity for special assistance services on its website, and introducing Sign Live—an on-demand BSL interpreter service for customer support teams. These new initiatives build on Virgin Atlantic’s ongoing work with Remark!, a leading deaf-led organization that provides BSL training for the airline’s crew.

Qatar Airways Launches new Flights From Doha To Toronto

With a growing number of BSL-trained crew members available on all flights, Virgin Atlantic is taking significant steps to make air travel more inclusive. And also recently it has hire the virgin atlantic down syndrome girl for work. This initiative is part of a larger campaign to promote deaf awareness and improve the flying experience for all passengers with hearing loss. Passengers can now request a BSL-trained crew member when booking their flights through the airline’s website, ensuring they have the support they need throughout their journey.

Virgin Atlantic’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond flights, with partnerships like the one with Channel 4, where BSL-trained crew members appeared in sign language interpreter segments. The airline also proudly supported the England Deaf Rugby team during their tour of South Africa.

By prioritizing accessibility and inclusivity, Virgin Atlantic is leading the way for other airlines, ensuring that every passenger feels confident, supported, and welcomed when flying.