① Airline that Introduced Economy Class Bed Cabins
Air travel prices can vary significantly based on the class of seating. Airplanes are categorized into different classes, such as First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. The price difference between the lowest-tier Economy Class and the highest-tier First Class can be more than four times.
Flying First Class is a dream come true for all passengers. However, Economy Class travelers often endure long journeys in uncomfortable seats, while Business Class offers a vastly different experience at a higher cost.
One airline has captured passengers’ attention by offering a groundbreaking solution to these concerns. That airline is Air New Zealand.
Air New Zealand has introduced a cabin service allowing Economy Class passengers to lie comfortably on a bed during long-haul flights, marking a world-first in the airline industry. Let’s take a closer look at what this entails.
Air New Zealand has announced that starting September 2024, they will introduce aircraft with bed pods for economy-class passengers. The airline will deploy eight Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners equipped with “Skynest,” which translates to “Nest in the Sky.” These bed pods, measuring 58 cm in width and 200 cm in length, will be arranged in three layers, totaling six beds.
Each bed will come with standard bedding, earplugs, reading lights, ventilation, USB outlets, and other amenities to enhance the passenger experience. After each use, the cabin crew will perform a 30-minute preparation process, including changing the bed sheets, to prepare for the next passenger.
Air New Zealand has also focused on sustainability, opting for fabric instead of leather to reduce carbon emissions by 1 kg per seat. The airline plans to reduce plastic usage by an estimated 28 million pieces annually.
② How Much Does Skynest Cost?
Air New Zealand has announced that Skynest will initially be introduced on routes between Auckland, New York, and Chicago. This news is sure to delight long-haul travelers. So, how much will it cost to enjoy the Skynest experience? The usage fee is estimated to range from $400 to $600 for a 4-hour session.
All passengers can use Skynest once, and reservations will be required for family members traveling together. When the reserved time expires, the cabin lights in the bed pods will be turned on. If a passenger remains asleep, flight attendants will gently wake them.
What led Air New Zealand to introduce bed cabins? They got the idea from the crew bunk.
The idea for introducing bed pods came from the airline’s crew rest compartments. These compartments are dedicated spaces for the crew to rest during flights, equipped with bunk beds, curtains, intercoms, air conditioning, and showers. The size and location of these crew rest compartments vary depending on the airline and aircraft type, but they are typically found on large, long-haul aircraft.
Air New Zealand aims to provide all passengers, regardless of their seat choice, the option to get a good night’s sleep during their flight. The airline has also announced plans to transform the current “Business Premier” seats into “Business Premier Luxe” seats, focusing on privacy and personal space for passengers.
③ SkyCouch service is already available
It’s worth noting that Air New Zealand already operates the “SkyCouch” service, allowing some Economy Class seats to transform into beds or couches. This seating arrangement is suitable for two adults, one adult and two children, or two adults and one child, and comes with pillows, sheets, and blankets to ensure a comfortable journey. SkyCouch seats are particularly popular among families traveling with children, as they provide the flexibility to lie down and rest.
With the introduction of the Skynest beds next year, many eagerly anticipate Air New Zealand’s latest offering for a comfortable and restful travel experience.
By. Kim Min Jae (minjaaie33@mememedia.co.kr)
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