A Norwegian economist has proposed that airlines impose higher charges on obese passengers, asserting that a “pay as you weigh” pricing model could yield benefits in health, financial savings, and environmental impact.
Bharat Bhatta, an associate professor at Sogn og Fjordane University College, suggested that airlines should standardize their pricing based on weight and space, similar to other transport industries.
He stated, “Passengers who lose weight and consequently lower their fares enjoy net benefits.” This comment was made this week in the Journal of Revenue and Pricing Management.
Bhatta noted that accommodating more lightweight passengers on a specific aircraft model could also lead to rewards for airlines while minimizing the consumption of environmentally harmful fuel.
To illustrate his concept of “pay as you weigh airline pricing,” Bhatta developed three pricing models.
The first model involves charging travelers based on the combined weight of themselves and their baggage. For instance, a passenger weighing 130 pounds (59 kg) would incur half the fare of a traveler weighing 260 pounds (118 kg), calculated at a rate per pound (kg).
The second model proposes a base fare with additional charges for heavier passengers to account for excess costs, resulting in varying fares for each individual.
Bhatta’s favored model is the third: an average fare would apply to passengers at a standard weight. Those above or below a designated threshold would either receive a discount or incur an extra charge.
This approach would effectively create three fare categories—high, average, and low—as per Bhatta’s explanation.
For years, airlines have struggled with how to accommodate larger passengers as average body sizes have increased. Airlines like Air France and Southwest Airlines have adopted policies allowing overweight travelers to purchase additional seats, with the option of receiving refunds for them.
When inquired about the prospect of charging heavier passengers more, Southwest spokesman Chris Mainz responded, “We have established policies and do not foresee any changes.”
United Air Lines Inc mandates that passengers unable to fit comfortably into one seat must purchase an additional seat. A spokesperson indicated that the airline would not comment on “future pricing.”
In a 2010 online survey, a significant 76 percent of respondents believed that airlines should charge overweight passengers more should they require an extra seat.
