Another airline spoof might be closer to actual reality. China's Spring Airlines posted on its Facebook page that Weigh-and-Pay flights would be coming soon.
"If you weigh less, you'll pay less — but heavier passengers will be asked to pay a fair fare for carrying more load on board," the post said, alongside a picture of an apparent sumo wrestler boarding a plane.
The concept of airlines charging passengers based on weight has actually been discussed for years. And a European economist published a study in March suggesting three pay-as-you-weigh models airlines should consider, NBC News reported.
Other Airlines' Gags
Canadian airline WestJet said it would ease the restrictions on carrying pets in the cabin. Plus, passengers' animals could roam free during flight. The airline posted a YouTube video on its website showing a goat, baby crocodile, duck and monkey on board an aircraft.
Southwest Airlines joined in the April Fools' Day fun and claimed it would add hot air balloons to its fleet. "Enjoy taking it slow with a scenic view while traveling from Boston to Denver," the airline's blog said. "You will have a full 31 hours of seemingly never-ending ground-peeping, star-gazing, and gusty nap time."
And JetBlue issued a spoof press release announcing new service to Papua New Guinea, Manitoba, Canada and Coolangatta, Australia. "Thirty-six channels of DirecTV will keep customers entertained for the day-and-a-half-long flight and unlimited Dunkin' Donuts coffee will keep customers awake for the entire duration to maximize available television-watching time," the release said.
I find these spoofs a nice break from regular airline reporting. But I'm glad it's only once per year. What do you think? Is it playful, clever fun or just annoying?