Air New Zealand offers ‘best sleep in the sky’ with new cabins

It’s something no other airline offers and now Aussies flying economy can experience what’s been described as the “best sleep in the sky”.

One of the most annoying things about catching a flight is not being able to sleep.

For Aussies travelling to Europe, or anywhere outside of the country really, the journey can take up to 24 hours.

Once you have watched multiple movies, the only option left is sleep, which many struggle to do.

However, Air New Zealand has completely shaken things up with the introduction of its new Dreamliners, due to arrive in 2024.

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Ai New Zealand’s Skynest beds. They look like bunk beds and will be coming to economy class in 2024 as part of its Dreamliners. Picture: Air New Zealand

It will give customers more choice than any other airline in the world, providing, as they say, “the best sleep in the sky” regardless of the cabin customers choose to fly in.

This includes a new Business Premier Luxe seat, designed for customers looking for more space and privacy, and Skynest, the world’s first sleep pods in the sky for economy travellers.

The sleep pods are a world first. Picture: Air New Zealand

Chief Customer and Sales Officer Leanne Geraghty told news.com.au it comes after feedback from customers over the past five years basically highlighting the importance for a good night’s sleep, more comfort and privacy.

“Skynest was an idea born out of looking at how we could offer a lie-flat option for Economy and Premium Economy travellers, and it’s going to be a real game-changer, adding more flexibility to the economy travel experience,” she said.

And this is SkyCouch, which is already available. Picture: Air New Zealand

It allows passengers to stretch out in one of six pods for part of your journey and catch some shut eye, and to top it off, each pod will include a full-size pillow, sheets and blanket.

Of course there’s the option of ear plugs along with lighting designed for rest.

“Research shows us the first night away from home is the hardest to get a good night’s sleep so everything we do on-board 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,” Ms Geraghty said.

Now, for the million dollar question. How does the Skynest cost?

“We have yet to determine the costs and will be able to share more information on pricing closer to the delivery of our new aircraft in 2024,” Ms Geraghty told news.com.au

Other features of Skynest includes a separate reading light, personal device USB outlet and ventilation outlet.

This is its premium economy cabin – quite spacious. Picture: Air New Zealand

And the airline’s business class seats, for the more traditional lie-flat experience. Picture: Air New Zealand

The aircraft will also offer Economy Stretch — it will have more legroom and greater pitch than a standard Economy seat, providing extra comfort on long-haul flights, according to Ms Geraghty.

“Our customers have highlighted the need for more space and comfort, so Economy Stretch is one of our many answers to this,” she said.

Ms Geraghty said it is a proud moment to unveil five years of hard mahi (work), “in what truly is a cabin of possibility”.

“Our new cabin experience is set to be world class, and we know our customers will love it.”