IMHO, such anecdotal "Evidence" is, at best irrelevant and contributes nothing to the thread.
With due respect, it is relevant. I've heard some horror stories that are very much based in fact. There are certain events I will not repeat here.
Overweight = BAD in the event of engine out, particularly.
I have heard of overwheights in the range of 2000kgs.
Could this be a contributing factor after an engine failure?
It certainly wouldn't help. Being overweight doesn't automatically mean it'll stop flying, but it means the margins that the pilots are working to could be sufficiently out to put them on the wrong side of the performance. That's where it gets to be a problem.
2,000 kg over when you're looking at 67,954 kgs MTOW = 2.9% overweight.
A valid point is raised regarding standard weights and certain pax, and indeed luggage etc.. At least the luggage is weighed at check-in.
A "standard" male is now considered to weigh 80 kgs. I personally weigh 89 kgs. That's an 11% increase right there.
ECAM Actions.