Air New Zealand is promising economy passengers the “best sleep in the sky” when it launches flights with bunk bed-style sleeping pods in 2024.
Called Skynest, the sleep pods will be installed in the carrier’s ultra-longhaul Dreamliner aircraft from 2024.
The six-pod units are said to be the first such offering in the world for economy passengers and were first announced in 2020.
Greg Foran, Air New Zealand chief executive, said: “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.”
Passengers will be able to book four-hour sessions in the sleeping pods at an additional cost, which is yet to be determined.
Also from 2024, Air New Zealand will offer a new Business Premier Luxe suite and a new Business Premier seat.
Foran added: “New Zealand’s location puts us in a unique position to lead on the ultra-longhaul 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.”
The carrier also offers Skycouch seats, which feature a row of three economy seats that convert into a flat surface.
More: Air New Zealand unveils prototype economy class lie-flat pods