Summary
- Air New Zealand is set to launch the Skynest, offering economy class passengers a comfortable travel experience with bunk beds in the sky.
- The Skynest is expected to be introduced on long-haul routes, including flights between New York and Auckland.
- Passengers can book a four-hour block in the Skynest for an additional cost, with linens and amenities provided for a relaxing and restful journey.
A new flying revolution is expected to take flight this year, with Air New Zealand poised to launch its long-awaited ‘Skynest.’ While it’s usually scheduled for all the bells and whistles to be reserved for the front of the aircraft, this new era of comfort is destined for the economy class passenger.
Those who have traveled to or from New Zealand know how isolated the nation of five million is, with its closest ‘big’ neighbor of Australia being a three-hour flight away. For those coming from further abroad, a trip from the United States is 13 hours (LAX to AKL), or from Asia, 10 hours (HKG to AKL). This much time in economy class can be less than desirable for some, so the Star Alliance carrier thought long and hard about improving those traveling in economy class and planned to introduce the first ‘bunk beds’ for passengers in the sky.
Photo: Air New Zealand
Ready for takeoff
While the airline keeps quiet on its exact launch date, passengers are expected to see the product launch in September this year, with select aircraft featuring six sleep pods to be booked for up to four hours at a time. Deployed on some of its long-haul routes, it’s widely expected to be seen on its flagship NZ1/NZ2 service between New York JFK and Auckland, one of the longest flights in the world. The Skynest may also be expected on services to Chicago, the airline’s second-longest scheduled flight.
Passengers looking to rug up with a book in the Skynest will be able to book the pod for a four-hour maximum block for a cost that’s estimated at NZ $400-$600 (US $254-$380) at your time of booking, in addition to your economy class fare. The bunk will include linens, which are changed after each passenger.
Photo: Air New Zealand
The usual sleep cycle (90 minutes) was well researched before deciding the four-hour block was best for travelers, with this time allowing adequate time for a traveler to wind down, fall asleep, and then wake up without feeling rushed. The bunk bed will include USB charging ports, reading lights, ear plugs, sheets, blankets, pillows, and a seatbelt to ensure passengers can still adhere to required safety protocols.
Air New Zealand Releases More Details About Its Skynest
Air New Zealand’s Skynest are the world’s first sleep pods fitted in an airplane.
Party for one
Unfortunately, no canoodling will be allowed in the Skynest, with each bunk reserved for one person at a time. If family and friends want to join, they must book their pod. This ensures that it gives everyone testing the product adequate opportunity to relax, lay down, and sleep before arriving refreshed at their next destination.
Air New Zealand 787 Skynest Wins Crystal Cabin Award
Air New Zealand is on top of the world after its game-changing Skynest walked out with a top award.
