Airline to install bunk beds for economy class pax

Air New Zealand plans to equip some of their planes with bunk beds and couches to boost comfort for economy class passengers on long-haul flights.

“Skynests” for economy class

A new offering from Air New Zealand will soon see economy class passengers way more comfortable on long-haul flights. This new offering comes in the form of eight new Boeing 787 Dreamliner jets being equipped with bunk beds and couches by 2024.

In a recent announcement, the airline claimed that it will be the first carrier to put sleep pods on a plane. It will also be the first to offer economy class passengers this special option. 

Air New Zealand CEO, Greg Foran, said that the airline had “zeroed in” on sleep, comfort and wellness because they knew how important it was for customers to arrive well-rested, and designed the pods after hearing customer feedback. 

“New Zealand’s location puts us in a unique position to lead on the ultra long-haul travel experience,” he 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.” Foran added.

According to Traveller, each Skynest will be available to economy and premium economy passengers, and sleeps six passengers in streamlined high-rise bunk-beds. The Skynests can be compared to long-distance train compartments with usage limited to a maximum four-hour period.

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Other offerings from Air New Zealand

The new Skynests are not the only new feature that Air New Zealand plans to roll out by 2024. The new Dreamliners will also include a new Business Premier Luxe seat, designed for customers looking for more space and privacy as well as an Economy Skycouch, which allows passengers to convert their seats into a couch after take off. The seats will have an adjustable footrest and fold-down armrests, which can be turned into a private couch seating up to three people.

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