A world-first innovation from Air New Zealand will be available to book next month, ushering in a new era in long haul travel.
Bookings open on May 18 for the Economy Skynest, which will operate onboard the airline’s new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft from November.
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.
Initial services will operate between New York and Auckland, redefining comfort on one of the world’s longest routes.
“New Zealand’s unique location means we understand long haul travel better than anyone,” said Nikhil Ravishankar, Air New Zealand Chief Executive.
“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.
Economy and premium economy customers will have the opportunity to book dedicated time to fully lie flat and recharge mid-flight.
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.
The pods feature:
# Lie-flat bed: A soft mattress with fresh pillow, sheets, and blanket for every session, and a seatbelt.
# Personal comfort controls: Individual USB outlets, reading light, cooling ventilation and a privacy curtain.
# A sleep-first environment: Soft ambient lighting as well as a complimentary “Nestcessities” amenity kit featuring an eye mask, socks, ear plugs, therapeutic skincare by Aotea and a dental kit.
“It’s a simple idea with a powerful impact: swap the headrest for bedrest and arrive ready to go,” added Mr Ravishankar.
