Air New Zealand is introducing bunk bed-style sleeping pods that can be used by economy passengers to get their 40 winks on ultra-long-haul flights.
In what’s being billed as a world-first, the airline is hoping to launch the communal sleeping spaces by 2024 in a bid to entice passengers onto their 17-hour flights across the globe.
Air New Zealand has named the concept ‘Skynest’ and explained that while its economy passengers will still be sold regular, non-reclining seats, they’ll be able to book four-hour sessions in the sleeping pods at an additional cost.
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The Guardian reports that mattresses and sheets in each pod will be changed by cabin crew after every booking and the beds will be stacked bunk bed-style on top of one another.
Each individual pod will be kitted out with ventilation outlets, USB charging and a privacy curtain.
Six Skynest pods will be installed in eight of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners that the airline is set to receive in 2024, and the installation will involve the removal of five economy seats.
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LADbible has approached Air New Zealand for comment.
An airline spokesperson confirmed to The Guardian that the booking cost for sleeping pods has yet to be determined, as has a booking system.
Skynest will only be available to economy passengers and flyers will only be able to book one four-hour session per flight.
The Air New Zealand rep also told the paper that sleeping pods will be limited to one person at a time, so don’t expect to be joining the mile-high club anytime soon.
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Greg Foran, Air New Zealand’s chief executive, called Skynest a ‘game-changer’ and said the concept is sure to transform the economy travel experience.
Foran shared: “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."
He continued: “Whether they are heading straight into a meeting, or to their first holiday hotspot – they want to hit the ground running.”
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Leanne Geraghty, the airline’s chief customer and sales officer, added: “Research shows us the first night away from home is the hardest to get a good night’s sleep so 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.”
Topics: Travel
Aisha Nozari