AIR New Zealand has divulged more details on its highly-anticipated Skynest sleep pods, which it claims is a world first, after initially announcing the concept in 2020.
The airline showcased the Skynest experience for the first time this week at TRENZ, New Zealand’s largest international tourism business event, with Air New Zealand Chief Customer and Sales Officer Leanne Geraghty touting the new product as a “real game changer”.
The Skynest is a six-pod configured sleep zone which will offer sessions for Economy passengers to lie down and catch some Zs on long-haul flights. Each pod will include a full-size pillow, sheets and blanket, ear plugs, a separate reading lights, personal device USB outlet, ventilation outlet, and lighting designed for rest.
The new rest zones will be retrofitted offshore on the carrier’s fleet of Boeing 787s, and will be positioned between Premium Economy and Economy.
“Our 83-year history is marked by a commitment to innovation and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Skynest is the latest example, and we’re proud to be leading the way with this world-first cabin feature,” Geraghty said.
“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.”
Air New Zealand anticipates that a four-hour session will be priced between NZ$400-$600, however is still working out the finer details of the pricing and booking process.
The sleep pods will launch in September 2024 on ultra-long haul flights, starting with the Kiwi carrier’s North America network.
