Air New Zealand’s game changing Economy Skynest on sale from May
Air New Zealand Chief Executive, Nikhil Ravishankar, said the new, revolutionary offering will operate onboard the airline’s new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft from November.
He said the game-changing concept gives travellers more choice, providing the opportunity for lie-flat rest in the sky regardless of the cabin they choose to fly.
Ravishankar said initial services will operate between New York and Auckland, redefining comfort on one of the world’s longest routes, and Skynest is another example of the airline backing innovation that improves the travel experience.
“New Zealand’s unique location means we understand long haul travel better than anyone,” he said.
“On some of the world’s longest commercial flights to and from New Zealand, Skynest is designed to make a real difference to the journey.
“Featuring six lie-flat pods in a bunk-style layout between the Economy and Premium Economy cabins, it gives customers the opportunity to stretch out, lie flat and get a few hours’ proper rest in the air.”
Developed over several years and tested with more than 200 customers, each Skynest pod provides a quiet, private space with a full-length mattress, bedding, ambient lighting, ventilation and charging ports.
For the first time, Economy and Premium Economy customers have the opportunity to book dedicated time to fully lie flat and recharge mid-flight, arriving in New Zealand refreshed and ready for adventure.
The sessions have been designed to allow for natural sleep cycles giving time to settle, sleep and wake gradually. Initially, two sessions will be offered on each flight.
“It is another example of how we are continuing to evolve and improve the Economy cabin experience,” Ravishankar said.
“Skycouch gave customers more choice in how they travel, and Skynest builds on that by offering a new option for rest on our longest flights.”
Skynest features six meticulously designed pods, offering a calming, private space to rest and reset.
Ravishankar said Skynest is part of the airline’s broader premium in-flight experience that puts rest, well-being, and choice at the centre of each traveller’s journey which is evident with the airline’s latest cabin experience which will also be onboard the new Dreamliner.
Both Premium Economy and Economy passengers will also enjoy the Sky Pantry, a self-service area for snacks and hydration available throughout the journey.