Air New Zealand’s revolutionary Economy Skynest sleep pods will go on sale on May 18 for select Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner flights between Auckland and New York JFK starting in November. This unique product, developed over five years and tested with more than 200 customers, allows economy and premium economy passengers to lie flat—a luxury no other airline provides.
What is Skynest?
The aircraft will feature six lie-flat pods arranged in bunk style between the economy and premium economy cabins. Each pod offers a quiet, private space with a full-length mattress, bedding changed by crew between uses, ambient lighting, ventilation, charging ports, an in-pod seatbelt, a crew call button, and a privacy curtain. Passengers receive a complimentary “Nestcessities” amenity kit containing an eye mask, socks, ear plugs, dental kit, and Aotea skincare products.
Booking and Pricing
Skynest is available as an add-on to an economy or premium economy fare for passengers aged over 15. Sessions last four hours, with an initial two sessions available per flight between meal services. Each session costs from $495.
Nestiquette Guide
Air New Zealand has released a “nesting” guide, or “nestiquette”—described as “like etiquette, but fluffier”—covering preparation, what to bring, and behavior tips:
- Pack light: “It’s a Skynest, not a studio apartment.”
- Keep snacks outside: “Crumbs in bed are the fastest way to ruin a good nap.”
- Access requires bending, kneeling, crawling, or climbing.
- “Climb ladders with grace rather than gymnastics,” though top bunks may require flexibility.
- Enter and exit quietly: “Your fellow nesters may be dreaming, let’s not wake them mid-plot.”
- Avoid strong perfumes: “Not everyone dreams in vanilla-sandalwood-cloud-musk.”
- Be prepared for snorers: “Statistically, someone’s going to do it. It might be you. Earplugs are provided.”
Other Cabin Enhancements
In addition to Skynest, the 787-9s feature Air New Zealand’s latest cabin products. Business Premier and Business Premier Luxe include fully closing doors for privacy and a versatile ottoman for companion dining. New premium economy seats have a fixed outer shell, allowing recline without affecting the passenger behind. Economy passengers benefit from “thoughtful stowage” and a 13.3-inch in-flight entertainment screen. Premium economy and economy passengers can visit the Sky Pantry, a self-service area for snacks and hydration throughout the flight.
Route Information
Auckland is about a 6½-hour direct flight from Perth. From Auckland, Western Australian travellers can fly directly to North America, including New York and Vancouver. The flight to New York includes Skynest.
