Air New Zealand Launches Revolutionary SkyNest Bunk Beds for December 2026
Air New Zealand has officially opened bookings for its revolutionary SkyNest economy bunk beds, marking a historic first for commercial aviation. Starting May 18, 2026, passengers can reserve four-hour sleeping sessions in lie-flat pods for NZ$495 (approximately US$290), with service beginning in late December 2026 on the Auckland to New York route.
The innovative SkyNest features six full-length bunk beds arranged in two vertical stacks of three. These are conveniently located between premium economy and economy cabins on Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. Each pod measures 80 inches in length and 23 inches in width, and is equipped with:
- Fresh linens
- Pillows
- Blankets
- USB charging ports
- Privacy curtains
- Ambient lighting
- A complimentary amenity kit including earplugs and eye masks
Economy and premium economy passengers can book one four-hour session per flight, scheduled outside meal service times. The airline will refresh bedding and clean pods during 30-minute turnarounds between sessions. While the concept has faced delays since its 2020 announcement due to pandemic-related aircraft delivery issues, Air New Zealand is now installing SkyNest on its newest 787-9s, with plans to expand to other long-haul routes. This pioneering concept offers passengers a genuine lie-flat sleeping experience in economy class on ultra-long-haul flights approaching 18 hours.
Source: https://www.airnewzealand.com/economy-skynest