Air New Zealandver since British Airways introduced the first lie-flat seats in the mid 1990s, being able to fully stretch out on a long-haul flight has required ponying up for a first- or business-class ticket.
“We’re still working through the exact details of how the booking process will work, and we have yet to determine the price,” said Leanne Geraghty, Air New Zealand’s chief customer and sales officer. “At this stage are looking at around $400 to $600 [New Zealand dollars] for the four-hour period." What do travelers want when they’re looking down the barrel of double-digit hours in an airplane seat? As the operator of some of the world’s longest flights, Air New Zealand has spent much time and research determining that passengers want to be comfortable enough to get some rest.
Since February, Air New Zealand passengers on some long-haul routes can pay an additional NZ $175 for one of the 42 Economy Stretch seats that boast nearly 40% more legroom than a standard economy seat and a 35-inch seat pitch, which is roughly 15% better than the industry average. Aglow in pink lighting designed to encourage rest, each Skynest is fitted with a privacy curtain, USB charging port, reading light and a seat belt. Passengers will also receive ear plugs, full-size sheets, a pillow and a blanket. The bedding be changed between uses during a 30-minute transition window.