US Airlines Could Save Up to $580 Million Annually Due to Weight-Loss Drugs
A 10% reduction in the average weight of 178 passengers would decrease the total loaded mass of a Boeing 737 MAX 8 by approximately 2%, writes the Financial Times.
This estimate was provided by Sheila Kahyaoglu, an analyst at the investment bank Jefferies. The calculation applies to the four largest US airlines and suggests annual fuel savings of up to $580 million due to the spread of weight-loss drugs.
The freed-up weight capacity could be used by carriers to transport commercial cargo. Airlines have already been reducing aircraft weight by using lighter tableware, beverage carts, and thinner paper: United Airlines has saved around $300,000 annually since 2018 by using lighter paper for its in-flight magazine.
Meanwhile, passengers taking weight-loss drugs may purchase fewer snacks and soft drinks, which generate additional revenue for carriers.
