Air New Zealand has apologised for an old crew manual
which suggested staff should keep an eye on Tongan passengers
who could take advantage of free in-flight alcohol.
The 2008 document, which profiled a number of nationalities,
was made public yesterday, the New Zealand Herald reported.
Air NZ said it had since been updated and no longer mentioned
alcohol or made cultural assumptions.
The document described Tongans as "softly spoken, reserved
people" but warned many could "drink the bar dry".
Tongan Advisory Council chairman Melino Maka said it was
extremely hurtful the airline had painted Tongans as
"uncontrollable alcoholics".
Air NZ spokesman Alan Gaskin apologised last night saying the
manual was not meant to cause offence.
"This section of the document was designed as a reference
guide to ensure international cabin crew were familiar with
the expectations of the diverse range of nationalities Air
New Zealand carries on its international services."
The newspaper said other nationalities profiled included Hong
Kong Chinese (described as demanding), mainland Chinese (not
fussy), Samoans (who came from a tropical climate and
appreciated being given rugs) and Koreans (who expect good
manners).
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