Air New Zealand’s Lie-Flat Economy Beds Are Coming to These U.S. Routes

Air New Zealand has long been focused on enhancing passenger comfort, devising innovative solutions to ensure a serene experience on ultra-long-haul flights (up to 18 hours from the U.S.). The Auckland-based airline introduced the Skycouch in 2011—three adjacent economy seats with footrests that can be lifted to create a “couch”—revolutionizing travel for families with young kids (or solo travelers willing to pay for extra space).

Beginning in September 2024, travelers will experience Air New Zealand’s latest offering: the world’s first lie-flat sleep pods in economy, known as the Skynest, set to launch on the airline’s Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The Skynests will first be available on flights from New York and Chicago to Auckland.

“With our ultra-long-haul services to cities like New York and Chicago, Skynest presents a distinctive and innovative way for our passengers to rest and recharge, enhancing their travel experience with us,” said Leanne Geraghty, Air New Zealand's chief customer and sales officer, in a press release. “By introducing Skynest on these routes, we’re fulfilling our promise to offer choice and the best experience possible for our passengers, while continuing to innovate and lead in the aviation sector.”

What to Expect from Air New Zealand’s Skynest Pods in Terms of Design and Pricing

Resembling the bunk-style beds used by flight attendants on longer flights (or rooms in pod hotels), the six Skynest beds allow passengers to recline during part of the flight. Each Skynest will be available in four-hour blocks, after takeoff and before landing. Each pod includes a pillow, sheets, and blanket (which will be replaced between passengers), earplugs, a separate reading light, and a personal USB outlet. Passengers will be limited to one session.

“We’re still finalizing the specifics of the booking process, and we have yet to set a price,” Geraghty stated. “Currently, we are looking at a range of approximately $400 to $600 for the four-hour period.”

From Concept to Reality

The prototype was first introduced in 2020, around the time when a new direct flight from Auckland to New York was supposed to launch. However, due to pandemic-related border closures, both plans were delayed; the New York nonstop—a nearly 18-hour journey—is now scheduled to commence on September 17, followed by the Chicago–Auckland route in October.

It took five years—equivalent to 170,000 hours at Boeing and Air New Zealand—to create these so-called nests, inspired by one of New Zealand’s native birds, the tūī, using sustainable materials such as fabric instead of leather, plus softer cushions, NASA cooling pillows, and bedding. Air New Zealand is also eliminating 28 million plastic dishes from its annual in-flight economy meal service to reduce its carbon footprint.

Dedication to Sustainability

While many companies merely pay lip service to sustainability (it’s more than just eliminating plastic straws, people), Air New Zealand genuinely embraces these changes. The airline operates with a predominantly local crew and fosters a culture centered around the "Tiaki Promise," a pledge to care for New Zealand and serve as guardians, safeguarding and nurturing our environment. This commitment is evident in its communications, in a statement travelers are encouraged to sign prior to arrival, and even within its safety video.
"Our goal is to provide the world’s best flying experience," stated Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran in a recent interview. This philosophy permeates everything from the in-flight experience to app efficiency—and, of course, how well you rest on those long-haul flights.

"Research indicates that the first night away from home is the toughest for achieving quality sleep, so our onboard efforts focus on fostering a tranquil atmosphere—from the lighting and sleep rituals featuring calming teas and balms to healthier meal options and breathable fabrics," said Leanne Geraghty, chief customer and sales officer, in a statement. "Meditative content, termed Zentertainment, will also assist customers in unwinding and preparing for rest."

Additional Enhancements to Air New Zealand’s Aircraft

Economy isn’t the only area receiving attention from Air New Zealand. Here are the cabin categories for the new and upgraded Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners joining the Air New Zealand fleet in 2024:

• Business Premier Luxe: Private sleeping quarters with a fully closing door and space for two to enjoy meals together.
• Business Premier: A cozy “private nest” designed for long-haul travelers. Those flying together can open their nest to share the space.
• Premium Economy: According to Air New Zealand, this seat option offers “enhanced privacy and a protected area where you can recline comfortably without disturbing the person behind you.”
• Economy Skynest: Lie-flat sleep pods available for economy passengers.
• Economy Skycouch: This option remains available.
• Economy Stretch: A more spacious economy seat.
• Economy seat: The standard economy seat is also getting improvements, featuring additional storage, more space, and a larger seatback screen that pairs with your device via Bluetooth.

The aircraft will include a Sky Pantry, where economy passengers can stretch their legs and help themselves to snacks or drinks at their convenience.

I’ve experienced eight consecutive hours of sleep on an Air New Zealand flight from Houston to Auckland—though I am a sleep-deprived parent of toddlers.

This article was initially published in 2022 and has been updated with new information since then. Reporting contributions were made by Bailey Berg.