Imagine being able to lie down and sleep comfortably on a long-haul flight in economy class. That’s exactly what Air New Zealand is offering with its new Skynest. This exciting innovation is set to change the way people travel in economy, making long flights much more relaxing and enjoyable.
Air New Zealand Sky Nest: A Game-Changer for Economy Passengers
Air New Zealand is a wonderful airline. I have flown them in the past from Melbourne to Los Angeles via Auckland. I was also given a lounge pass to the Air New Zealand Kora Lounge in Auckland many years ago and I will never forget the experience. (Lounge passes make a great and unique gift to travellers.)
Expanding on the idea of improving comfort for economy class travelers, and with previously introducing the skycouch on board some of their aircrafts, Air New Zealand has introduced the Skynest, an innovative design that takes in-flight relaxation to the next level. The Skynest offers passengers a fully flat bed experience in the economy cabin, with multiple sleeping pods arranged in a semi-private layout. This design provides a dedicated space for rest during long-haul flights, enhancing overall comfort without taking up valuable cabin space. By focusing on the needs of economy travelers, the Skynest represents a bold shift in how airlines are rethinking the economy class experience.
What is Air NZ Skynest?
The Skynest on Air New Zealand is a unique setup of six sleeping pods. These pods are located between the premium economy and economy sections of the plane.
The Air New Zealand Skynest is a special feature for passengers in economy class on long-haul flights. The six beds are stacked in a triple bunk arrangement, allowing passengers to lie flat and sleep.
With Air New Zealand bunk beds, the airline is taking economy travel to a new level. Winning awards for its design, the Air New Zealand economy beds will make passengers’ journeys much more comfortable and relaxing.
Each pod comes with:
- Air vents to keep the space fresh.
- A small reading light.
- Comfortable bedding, including a pillow and blanket.
- Earplugs to block noise.
- USB ports to charge devices.
- Lights designed to help with relaxation.
- Seatbelts.
- Privacy Curtain
The bedding is replaced after each use to ensure cleanliness. Cabin crew will require 30 minutes between sessions. For safety, each pod has a seatbelt so passengers can stay secure even if there’s turbulence.
This new feature is all about making economy travel better by helping passengers get real rest during their flight.
Which is the best bunk to choose?
The bottom bunk is said to have a little more height than the middle and top ones. I guess this would come down to personal preference. I think i would like to stay quite grounded with easy access to exit, so i would be opting for the bottom bunk.
Air New Zealand Sky Pantry
The airline is said to have also introduced a “Sky Pantry” in the Premium Economy and Economy sections. This area allows passengers to stretch their legs, grab snacks, and stay hydrated whenever they want during the flight.
Air New Zealand Skynest Launch
The Skynest Air New Zealand sleep pods were supposed to launch September 2024, but the debut has been delayed. The Skynest is now expected to launch in mid 2025 on their brand-new Boeing 787 Dreamliner planes.
What routes will the Air New Zealand skynest fly on?
Air New Zealand plans to use these new planes on long flights, such as Auckland to New York and Auckland to Chicago. The airline is also working with experts to add Skynest pods to their existing planes.
Currently, Air New Zealand operates 14 Boeing 787-9s and has ordered eight more. These new planes will feature the Skynest first, giving economy passengers an option to sleep comfortably on the longest routes.
How Much are the Sleeping Pods on Air New Zealand?
The Air New Zealand Skynest price is expected to be between NZ$400 and NZ$600 for a single four-hour session. Passengers are likely to find four hours sufficient to relax, drift off to sleep, and wake up feeling refreshed without any sense of being rushed.
While it’s not cheap, this price gives economy passengers the chance to experience a proper bed during their flight. After each session, there will be a short 30 minute break to clean and prepare the pod for the next passenger.
Each passenger is allowed to book one session. Families traveling together can book pods for each person, as long as there is availability. And speaking of availability, I would imagine this part could be quite challenging—similarly challenging to managing demand for Qantas Project Sunrise’s well-being zone. How do you handle so many economy-class passengers wanting access to the same area at the same time? While the bunks must be prebooked, unlike the well-being zone where passengers simply walk up, it still poses challenges. The SkyPantry could potentially have a similar dynamic to the well-being zone, as it invites passengers to congregate, adding an extra layer of coordination to ensure a seamless experience for everyone. Time will tell.
Nevertheless these are great initiatives from both airlines with regards to the economy class passengers.
Skynest Air New Zealand: Comfortable and Safe Sleep Pods
The Skynest Air New Zealand sleep pods are designed with comfort and safety in mind. Each pod provides everything needed for a good rest, including high-quality bedding and adjustable lighting. For safety, the seatbelt ensures passengers can stay secure even if the flight experiences turbulence.
When the session ends, the lights in the pod gradually brighten, and the crew gently wakes passengers if needed. This thoughtful process ensures a smooth transition back to the regular seating.
A New Era for Economy Travel
The Air New Zealand Skynest is a bold move to improve long-haul economy travel. By offering beds to economy passengers, the airline is setting a new standard for comfort. The Skynest lets passengers enjoy a proper rest, helping them arrive at their destination feeling refreshed and ready to go.
This innovation proves that Air New Zealand is serious about making economy travel better. Whether you’re flying to New York, Chicago, or other destinations, the economy beds on Air New Zealand will make your trip far more enjoyable.
Final Words
I usually travel by using points. More often than not you will find me transferring Amex Points to Emirates. If you’re a fellow points collector, you probably know that when redeeming miles for a ticket, using a miles redemption calculator is essential. It helps ensure you’re getting the best value for your points, and I make it a habit to do this every time.
If i am not flying business class I am always on the look out for an economy or premium economy cabin that will allow me to stretch out and relax. For example premium economy on board the Emirates A380. However, I would definitely consider the skycouch and skynest on board Air New Zealand.
The Air New Zealand Skynest is a revolutionary idea that will change the way people think about economy travel. With its comfortable sleeping pods, attention to detail, and focus on safety, the Skynest is set to make long-haul flights a lot more pleasant. Although its launch has been delayed, this new feature is worth the wait for passengers looking for a better way to fly.
Finally, if you are travelling soon and need help packing, feel free to download this ultimate travel packing list. It contains items and tips you may not have considered!
Happy travels!
