Air New Zealand Innovates Economy Class with Skycouch

Air New Zealand is redefining the flying experience for economy class passengers with its innovative Skycouch option, a unique feature that transforms standard economy rows into a comfortable sleeping space. This comes alongside the airline’s upcoming Skynest, which introduces bunk beds for economy passengers, set to launch in 2026. However, the Skycouch has been available since 2011 and continues to attract attention for its practicality on long-haul flights.

The Skycouch, often dubbed as “cuddle class,” converts an entire row of seats into a flat bed area. This is achieved by flipping up the footrests across all three seats in the row to create a continuous, flat surface from the back of one seat to the back of the seat in front. This area is then covered with a provided sheet, and supplemented with large, plush pillows and blankets to enhance comfort during the flight.

I recently experienced the Skycouch on a 12-hour journey from Auckland to San Francisco to determine if the additional cost is justified compared to a standard economy seat. Here’s what I discovered about the service:

Functionality and Comfort The Skycouch setup begins with what appears to be a normal row of economy seats. Each seat is equipped with a footrest that swings up and locks into place, creating a flat surface across the row. This setup allows passengers, whether solo or in pairs, to lie flat, stretch out, and try to get some rest. The inclusion of business-class style pillows and additional blankets helps mimic a more premium flying experience.

During my flight, the transformation of the row into a Skycouch was straightforward. The flight attendants were proactive in assisting passengers to set up their rows and were available to answer any questions about the functionality. Opting to sleep after a late dinner service, I was able to convert the row into a bed with relative ease and settle down for a few hours of sleep.

Comparative Comfort and Pricing The Skycouch is notably harder than a typical bed or even a business class seat, but the ability to lie down fully flat offers a significant comfort upgrade over standard economy seats. At a length of 5 feet 1 inch and a width of 29 inches, it provides ample space for individuals or cozy room for two.

Pricing for the Skycouch varies depending on the flight and demand but generally ranges between $1,100 and $2,000 per row. For solo travelers, this can be a steep increase from a standard economy ticket; however, for couples or families, the cost per person becomes much more reasonable and competitive with premium economy options.

Is It Worth It? For those prioritizing rest on long-haul flights, especially overnight routes, the Skycouch presents a valuable option. It affords more privacy and comfort than regular seats and aligns well with the needs of families traveling with children, offering them space to lay flat and rest more naturally.

Air New Zealand’s Skycouch is a compelling choice for long-distance travelers seeking a better sleep experience in the economy class. As the airline continues to innovate with additions like the Skynest, it remains a leader in enhancing passenger comfort across all classes. This focus on passenger experience highlights Air New Zealand’s commitment to improving air travel, making long-haul journeys more enjoyable and comfortable for all travelers.

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