Finnair to Gather Data on the Average Weight of Passengers
In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing flight safety and efficiency, Finnair has announced plans to gather data on the average weight of passengers and their carry-on baggage. This novel project, set to take place during select periods in February and April-May 2024 at Helsinki Airport, underscores the airline's commitment to optimizing aircraft balance calculations—a critical component for the safe operation of flights.
Finnair's approach to this data collection endeavor is notable for its emphasis on volunteer participation and anonymity. Passengers departing from Helsinki Airport will have the opportunity to volunteer at the departure gate, where they and their carry-on baggage will be weighed. The process is designed to ensure that the data collected is entirely unlinked to any personal identifiers, maintaining the privacy of participants.
This initiative is not just about collecting data for the sake of it. Each aircraft operates within strict weight limits to ensure safe takeoff and cruising conditions. The total weight includes various components such as the aircraft itself, fuel, checked baggage, onboard catering, and passengers with their carry-on items. While the weight of most of these components can be accurately measured or calculated, the weight of passengers and their carry-on baggage has traditionally been estimated using average weights provided by the Civil Aviation Authority or the European Aviation Safety Authority (EASA).
Finnair's proactive measure to conduct its own weight measurements stems from a regulatory requirement to update these figures every five years. With the last data collection conducted in 2017 and 2018, the airline is timely in its efforts to gather updated information, thereby adhering to the directives of the authorities and ensuring the continued safety and efficiency of its operations.
Satu Munnukka, Finnair's Head of Ground Processes, highlighted the meticulousness of the process, stating, "We record the total weight and background information such as the customer’s age, gender, and travel class without collecting any personal data that could lead to the identification of participants." This methodical approach ensures the integrity of the data collection process while respecting the privacy of volunteers.
The collected data is set to be analyzed and submitted to Traficom – The Finnish Transport and Communications Agency between July and September 2024. Upon approval, the updated average weights will be utilized for aircraft balance and loading calculations for the years 2025 to 2030, marking a significant advancement in Finnair's operational capabilities.
The data collection will be strategically conducted across selected flights at Helsinki Airport, covering both Schengen and non-Schengen departures. This wide-ranging approach aims to capture a representative sample of Finnair's passenger demographics, including both business and leisure travelers, thereby ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the data for future balance calculations.
Finnair's initiative reflects a pioneering spirit in the aviation industry, demonstrating a proactive stance on safety and operational efficiency. By engaging directly with passengers and leveraging their participation, the airline not only enhances its data-driven decision-making processes but also fosters a culture of transparency and collaboration with its customer base.
