Customers have spoken and the airline has listened to them, and it is that space and the need to have a good rest during a flight is vital for those who are used to traveling regularly. Now Air New Zealand intends to change the way people rest inside the plane, and it will do so by launching Skynest, the first berths to sleep in Economy class.
Starting in 2024, the New Zealand airline will introduce the new Dreamliners aircraft, offering its customers a new Business Premier Luxe suite, a new Business Premier seat and also its greatest innovation, the world's first Skynest. It is a space with six berths available for Economy passengers on ultra-long-haul flights that will live next to the traditional seats, and in which they will be able to rest for four hours at an additional cost.
An extensive investigation, which lasted up to five years, led Air New Zealand to recognize this need. Travelers stress the importance of a good night's sleep, and with the requirement for more space and comfort, the airline has shown a clear ambition to create a better flight experience.
Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran highlights the purpose they want to achieve, "New Zealand's location puts us in a unique position to lead the ultra-long-haul travel experience. We have focused on sleep, comfort and well-being, because we know how important it is for our clients to arrive at their destination well-rested".
The aesthetics and interior of the cabins is inspired by the concept and uniqueness of Aotearoa, whose translation refers to the land of the white cloud. These are three pods stacked on top of each other, to really maximize the space inside the cabin. Measuring about two meters long and about 58 cm wide, for all types of passengers.
The sleep booths will only be available for four hours, and that makes sense, according to the company, that's the time frame needed to go through two REM cycles, since it typically lasts 90 minutes each cycle. In this way, it is possible to have an extra hour of comfort to sleep and wake up, in addition to 30 minutes in which the crew will be in charge of cleaning the capsules and changing the sheets.
The capsules have not only been designed with the aim of offering comfort but also to promote sustainable design. The use of modern fabrics instead of leather have reduced around 1kg of weight per Business Premier and Premium Economy seat, reducing overall carbon emissions. Likewise, the plastic dishes used during the flight will be reduced by 28 million each year.
The airline has also added a Sky Pantry to Premium Economy and Economy cabins, so customers can stretch their legs or eat during their journey.
