Skynest for Kiwi travellers
Skynest for Kiwi travellers
Air New Zealand is planning to launch the Skynest, a lie-flat bed for economy class travellers. The idea is that economy class passengers on long-haul flights to and from the country will be able to book a few hours kip in addition to their regular seat.
The airline operates some of the world’s longest flights, such as the Auckland to New York service which comes in at an eye watering 17 hours 40 minutes one way. “A clear pain point for economy travelers on long-haul flights is the inability to stretch out,” explains Mike Tod, Chief Marketing and Customer Officer, “the development of the economy skynest is a direct response to that challenge.”
The airline has filed patent and trademark applications for six full length lie-flat sleep pods. They will measure about of 200 x 58 centimeters (79 x 23 inches). Each pods will boast a full-size pillow, sheets and blanket and ear plugs as well as privacy curtains and lighting designed for sleep. Cabin crew will change the bedding and freshen up the pod between users. Other features might include separate reading lights and USB ports.
“We’re sure this innovation is going to be a game changer for the industry and bring significant improvements to long-haul flying,” says Nikki Goodman, Air New Zealand’s General Manager of Customer Experience.
Exactly where in the aircraft the pods will be located hasn’t been decided yet but the company is hoping to implement them sometime in 2021.