AUCKLAND – For many travelers, long-haul economy flights mean hours of discomfort in cramped seats with little chance of real rest. Air New Zealand is set to change that by introducing real beds in economy class, allowing passengers to book sleeping pods for a few hours during their journey.

Launch Timeline and Delays

After multiple delays, the airline has now confirmed a planned rollout of its Skynest sleeping pods in 2026. While an exact launch date has not been set, insiders suggest the beds could debut as early as spring next year. In an interview with Forbes, Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran described the innovation as groundbreaking, stating:

“Skynest is my favorite example of innovation and pushing boundaries at 35,000 feet. This is something never seen before in commercial aviation, and we are incredibly excited to bring it to the skies next year.”

Which Planes Will Feature Skynest?

The airline has confirmed that Skynest pods will be introduced on its ultra-long-haul routes, catering to passengers flying some of the world’s longest journeys. While Air New Zealand has not officially disclosed the aircraft models that will feature these sleeping pods, the airline currently operates Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and has orders for the Boeing 787-10, making these the likely candidates.

Cost for Passengers and Investment in Comfort

Air New Zealand has not yet revealed the final pricing for passengers looking to book a Skynest pod, but previous estimates suggest travelers could pay an additional $400 to $600 USD for a four-hour sleep session in a shared bunk-style space. The airline is investing significantly in the new concept, though the exact cost of implementing Skynest across its fleet remains undisclosed.

By reimagining economy-class comfort, Air New Zealand aims to set a new industry standard, making long-haul travel more restful for budget-conscious flyers. (zai)

Photos: AIR NEW ZEALAND