Talk about a hair-raising flight: not only will British
billionaire Richard Branson dress and serve as a stewardess on budget carrier
AirAsia on May 1, a ‘lucky’ passenger will get the once-in-a-lifetime
opportunity to shave Branson’s legs—and pay him at least US$650,000 for
the honor. 

The stunt will be carried out at the behest of AirAsia
founder Tony Fernandes, who won a bet with Branson at the 2010 Bahrain Formula
One Grand Prix.

“As an AirAsia flight attendant, Richard would have to comply with our grooming
standards, and that includes shaving his legs,” Fernandes said in a statement.

“Rather than shave him myself, Richard and I thought we
could have a bit of fun, engage with our guests and raise more money for
charity if we opened up the opportunity to the highest bidder,” he added. “It’s the first time we’ve both agreed on anything so
that in itself is worth the price of the opening bid.”

AirAsia said the top bidder must purchase a ticket costing 4,500 pounds for the London
to Kuala Lumpur charity flight,
with the leg-shaving auction taking place at a pre-departure event at Stanstead
airport.

The airline said it was selling 160 tickets for the flight, with passengers to
be entertained on board by street magician Sav the Deceptionist and a
four-piece band featuring former Formula One team owner Eddie Jordan. Tickets
for the much-publicized stunt will be available through April 24, and all of
the proceeds will go to beneficiaries chosen by the two airline moguls.

Airasiago.com

Via [Straits Times]