AirNZ unveil incredible new cabin designs – Including the Skynest for economy passengers

Air New Zealand has unveiled an incredible new cabin design, offering seven classes for you to pick from. Whether you book a brand new way to travel (like the ground-breaking Skynest) or a more familiar option, there is something new to explore for everyone.

Which Air New Zealand Planes are Getting an Upgrade?

The Air New Zealand Dreamliners are the first planes to undergo this incredible transformation – the most significant in 20 years!

Not only will new seats (and excitingly, beds) be brought into play, but the backseat screen size is getting an overhaul (increasing by 50%) and Bluetooth is being fitted throughout, allowing you to use your wireless headphones whilst onboard.

The new interiors will be installed into new 787s and retrofitted into existing planes, ready to go from mid-2024.

In addition to the changes mentioned below, there will be increased availability of the premium seats, particularly on North American routes. This will make it much easier to secure a Business Premier Luxe, Business Premier or Premium Economy seat, allowing you to travel long-haul in comfort.

For those wanting to stick to economy, the new plane interiors will include a grazing zone, allowing you to refuel easily at any point in time.

Related: Do I need a visa to travel to Aotearoa?

New Zealand’s location puts us in a unique position to lead on the ultra-long haul travel experience. We have zeroed in on sleep, comfort, and wellness because we know how important it is for our customers to arrive well-rested.

Greg Foran, AirNZ CEO

The New and Improved Fare Classes being Introduced on AirNZ

Business Premier Luxe

Offering a whole new fare class, Business Premier Luxe increases space and privacy for passengers. You’ll enjoy all of the benefits of Business Premier, but with a fully closing door and space to dine with your travel buddy. This really is the ultimate way to travel.

Business Premier

Business Prem continues to be offered in AirNZ’s new fit-out, but it’s been reconsidered. The cabin layout has been altered, doing away with the sharp herringbone design. As always though, you’ll be treated to incredible comfort and privacy in this class. Of course, you’ll have your lie-flat bed (which is bliss on a long-haul flight) and all of the food and beverage trimmings that come with booking these seats.

Pro Tip: If you’re travelling with someone else, book two seats on either side of the middle row – this will allow you to open your nest and share the experience with one another.

Premium Economy

A perpetual favourite amongst those wanting a touch of luxe without shelling out for the higher classes, premium economy remains, but it’s had an upgrade. The new designs offer increased privacy and space, allowing you to recline to your heart’s content. Look at that leg room!

Skynest

The most exciting new addition to the Air New Zealand cabin, the Skynest is the world’s first sleep pod in the sky. Each newly-fitted plain will come with six pods that will be available to economy passengers for part of the flight. They’re the perfect way to catch a few z’s during the night.

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

Greg Foran, AirNZ CEO

Skycouch

The Skycouch isn’t new, and those in the know have made excellent use of it for years. These economy seats appear normal at first glance, but they easily transform into beds, allowing a couple or small family to stretch out in comfort. Again, these are a great option for long-haul travellers.

Economy Stretch

Another new class, Economy Stretch offers passengers additional leg room without having to spring for Premium Economy. Wonderful news for those with longer legs!

Economy

Though the traditional Economy seats don’t have the comfort and glamour of the options mentioned above, they also have benefited from an upgrade, making them better than ever.

Whilst onboard you’ll enjoy more storage than ever before, increased comfort and a screen that’s 50% bigger than before. Plus you’ll be able to connect your Bluetooth headphones to the inflight entertainment or pair your device up, acting as a remote or second screen.

Who said economy class had to be second-best?

Everything we do onboard is to help create a sense of calm – from the lighting and sleep ritual including sleepy teas and balms, to the healthier food choices and breathable fabrics. Meditative onscreen content, Zentertainment, will also help customers unwind and get ready for rest

Greg Foran, AirNZ CEO

With so many amazing new and upgraded options coming, we can’t wait for our next long-haul flight with Air New Zealand!

Related: The different airports servicing New Zealand.

Photo credit: Air New Zealand.