Ryan Bridge: Kudos to Qantas for trying something new

Early Edition with Ryan Bridge

Kudos to Qantas for introducing a wellbeing zone on the cattle class of the aircraft.

Airlines are cramming us in like sardines, anyone who's travelled will know this.

They serve you booze, you recline your seat, the planes dry you out and then as a natural consequence, people go nuts.

Unruly passengers ripping open the emergency doors, running up and down the aisles screaming like mad people.

Globally, physical assaults on aircrafts are up 60% post-pandemic. Air New Zealand alone deals with 200 reports a month of abusive behaviour.

People are responsible for their behaviour, yes, but the airlines are responsible for the environment which you travel in. The world is full of nutty people, and you have to cater for nutty people on aircraft, don't you?

So good on Qantas. From 2026 they will have a dedicated wellbeing area at the front of economy, they've got sculpted wall, integrated handles for exercise, stabilising you in doing some squats or whatever you want to do.

They've got a cabinet of healthy snacks, fruit juices, smoothies, self-service.

Now, here's the kicker - It's for their 20-hour flights. Would you do it?

Would you do it, even if there's fruit smoothies and integrated handles for stretching and exercise?

The answer for me is a resounding no, but at least they're trying something. Others should follow suit.

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