LONDON – From 2024, Air New Zealand will offer the best sleep in the sky with luxury seating and the world’s first Economy class Skynest sleeping pod on its Dreamliners.

The announcement of the new cabin configurations follows hot on the heels of the carrier’s heralded re-opening of 14 international routes in just 16 days. The re-opened routes include popular destinations like Honolulu, Houston, and Tahiti.

And in the latest offering, Air New Zealand will offer the best sleep in the sky with luxury seating and the world’s first Skynest sleeping pod on its Dreamliners, from 2024.

The New Zealand flag carrier has eight Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners due to arrive in 2024, which will be configured with customized premium seating options with greater comfort and privacy.

It will also introduce the world’s first sleeping pods for Economy travelers – termed the Skynest.

The airline says that it will provide its customers with more choices than any airline in the world, providing the best sleep in the sky regardless of the cabin passengers choose to fly in.

Sweet dreams!

The move comes after five years of extensive customer research by the airline and will be a boon for travelers on long-haul flights.

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.”

Chief Customer and Sales Officer Leanne Geraghty further commented on the importance of quality sleep time on long-haul flights, saying:

“Research shows us the first night away from home is the hardest to get a good night’s sleep so everything we do on board is to help create a sense of calm – from the lighting and sleep ritual including sleepy teas and balms to the healthier food choices and breathable fabrics.”

The airline has also added a Sky Pantry to the Premium Economy and Economy cabins, so customers can stretch their legs, grab a bite to eat, and hydrate at their leisure throughout their journey.

The New Cabin Options

Business Premier Luxe: The best sleep in the sky. Our new offering is for customers looking for the ultimate space and privacy. A luxury experience with all the features of Business Premier, but with a fully closing door and space for two to dine.

Business Premier: A comfortable and private nest for a blissful journey and tranquil sleep. And if traveling with a companion, the middle row allows customers to open their nests and share their experiences.

Premium Economy: For the treat-seekers looking for a little luxury to unwind and enjoy a taste of Aotearoa. Our new seat offers more privacy and protected space where you can recline at leisure without interrupting the person behind.

Economy Skynest: It’s time to swap the headrest for some bed rest. Say hello to the world’s first sleep pods in the sky, Skynest. Stretch out in one of six pods for part of your journey and catch some shut-eye. A game-changer for economy travelers.

Economy Skycouch: Use the Skycouch the way you want. Sit, spread out, or lie down and snooze. Share the space or keep it all to yourself.

Economy Stretch: It’s all in the name. This seat is for those who want to rest and stretch their legs further than the regular Economy seat.

Economy seat: An enhanced economy seat designed with more storage, comfort, and space and a 50% bigger screen for entertainment. Connect to Bluetooth audio and pair your device to act as a remote control or second screen.

Summary

The eight Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners arriving from 2024 and retrofitted current 787-9 fleet will have either eight or four Business Premier Luxe seats, 42 or 22 Business Premier, 52 or 33 Premium Economy, 125 or 213 Economy seats, and specifically on the ultra-long haul aircraft, six Skynest sleep pods.