The airline claims that its Skynest pods are a “first in the world” for both economy and premium economy passengers. Passengers will be able to reserve one four-hour sleep session per flight for an additional fee, and each pod will accommodate only one individual.
Sleeping on airplanes is notoriously difficult, especially in economy class, but Air New Zealand believes its plans for sleeping pods in the style of bunk beds will ensure that passengers on its ultra-long-haul flights receive quality rest.
The airline claims that its Skynest pods for economy and premium economy passengers are a “world first.
Passengers will still have a seat, but for an additional fee, they will be able to reserve a four-hour sleeping session in one of the pods.
They will only be able to reserve one session per flight, and each sleeping pod will only accommodate one individual at a time.
Each pod has its privacy curtain, pillow, and sheet, which are replaced with each new occupant.
Air New Zealand plans to equip its eight incoming Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners beginning in 2024, as well as its existing 787-9 fleet, with six Skynest pods.
September will mark the launch of the first nonstop flight between Auckland and New York, which will take more than 17 hours. In October, the airline will resume its direct flight to Chicago, which is an ultra-long-haul service.
However, passengers using these services will have to wait a few more years to experience the Skynest, as no booking or pricing information is currently available.
Greg Foran, chief executive officer of Air New Zealand, stated, “New Zealand’s location places us in a unique position to lead the ultra-long-haul travel experience. We have prioritized sleep, comfort, and wellness because we understand how vital it is for our guests to arrive well-rested.
Whether they are going directly to a meeting or their first vacation destination, they want to get right to work.
Mr. Foran believes the pods will “completely transform the economy travel experience.”
