New Zealand flag carrier, Air New Zealand, has revealed more on their world-first bunkbeds, Skynest – the world’s first in-air sleeping pods. Thus far, the Skynest concept has been confirmed to be available on New York and Chicago services from 2024.
Air New Zealand unveiled the concept back in June of last year, to offer the best sleep in the sky with luxury seating and the sleeping pods on its Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet.
Sweeter dreams are one step closer
Air New Zealand has announced more on their Skynest project, during the TRENZ event- New Zealand’s largest international tourism business event, where a real-life Skynest experience was also available for the very first time.
Attending the event, Chief Customer and Sales Officer at Air New Zealand, Leanne Geraghty said Skynest is “going to be a real game changer, adding more flexibility to the economy travel experience”.
To this, she added: “Our 83-year history is marked by a commitment to innovation and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.”
“SkyNest has captured the imagination of a global audience and its uniqueness has already been acknowledged by multiple awards – the latest being a finalist in the Crystal Cabin Awards. We’re delighted that customers are as excited about this new innovation as we are.”
“Our extensive research and design process, which spanned five years and 170,000 hours, has resulted in a product that we’re confident will revolutionise the in-flight experience for Economy passengers.”
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New details
Skynest is to be featured on ultra-longhaul flights, and Air New Zealand is eyeing their North American destinations at that. Furthermore, Skynest has been confirmed to feature Air New Zealand’s Auckland – New York service, as well as the Auckland – Chicago service.
“We’re delighted to announce that our innovative Economy Skynest will be launching on ultra-long haul flights, starting with the popular Auckland – New York and Auckland – Chicago routes.”, Leanne Geraghty continues.
“With our ultra-long haul routes to destinations such as New York and Chicago, Skynest provides a unique and innovative way for our passengers to rest and recharge, making their journey with us even more enjoyable.”
“By launching Skynest on these routes, we are bringing to life our commitment to providing choice, alongside the best possible experience for our passengers, and to continue to innovate and lead the way in the aviation industry.”
Air New Zealand has also announced that the Skynest product will be designed and installed in New Zealand, more specifically in Aotearoa.
“While our overall 787 refit will occur offshore in the best Boeing facilities, our best engineers and designers will develop SkyNest in New Zealand, using the latest in cutting-edge technology and design.” it is stated by the airline.
The initial announcement
In June 2022, AviationSource covered the initial announcement of the Skynest product. The move came after five years of extensive customer research by the airline and is set to be a boon for travellers on long-haul flights.
On the announcement, Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Greg Foran said the new cabin was a winning formula, adding:
“New Zealand’s location puts us in a unique position to lead on the ultra-long-haul travel experience. We have zeroed in on sleep, comfort, and wellness because we know how important it is for our customers to arrive well-rested.”
“Whether they are heading straight into a meeting, or to their first-holiday hotspot – they want to hit the ground running.
“It’s a proud moment to finally unveil five years of hard Mahi, in what truly is a cabin of possibility. One that will provide customers with options to get some shut-eye wherever they’re sitting.”
“We wanted to offer our Economy customers a lie-flat option and that’s how Skynest was born. It’s going to be a real game-changer for the economy travel experience.”
