Innovative Sleeping Options in Economy Class: Airlines Offering ‘Sleeping Rows’
Traveling on long-haul flights in economy class is often synonymous with discomfort, particularly when trying to sleep. However, some airlines are transforming the experience by offering passengers the option to reserve ‘sleeping rows’ at a reduced rate, creating a makeshift bed in the economy section. Here are three airlines that offer such innovative sleeping solutions, making long-distance travel more comfortable without the cost of business class.
Air New Zealand’s Skycouch
Air New Zealand was a pioneer with the Skycacouch, a unique offering that allows passengers to transform a row of three economy seats into a flat surface. This setup includes extendable footrests that lock at 90 degrees, converting the seats into a bed that is 29 inches wide and 5’1” long, nearly the length of a twin bed. The Skycouch is especially popular among families, as it includes options like infant pods and cuddle belts. Prices vary depending on the route and number of occupants, with significant discounts applied when booking as a group. This product is available on the airline’s Boeing 777-300 and Boeing 787-9 aircraft.
Lufthansa’s Sleeper’s Row
Introduced in 2021, Lufthansa’s Sleeper’s Row offers passengers a row of three to four seats accompanied by a thin mattress pad, a business-class quality blanket, and a pillow. Though these are standard economy seats without additional width, the Sleeper’s Row provides a flat area to lie down, with the upgrade fee ranging between $179 and $249 per leg. Available only on flights lasting at least 11 hours, passengers enjoy perks like pre-boarding to settle in comfortably before the journey begins.
ANA’s Couchii
All Nipon Airways offers the Couchii, a special row in economy class that can be turned into a flat sleeping space, thanks to seat extenders that create a 32-inch wide bed. Available on ANA’s Airbus A380 flights between Tokyo Narita and Honolulu, the Couchii provides a level of comfort with two oversized pillows, a comforter, and a horizontal seatbelt. Pricing for the Couchii varies, with cost-effectiveness increasing significantly when booked by multiple passengers. This option can be reserved from the time of booking until 48 hours before the flight.
These innovative solutions from Air New Zealand, Lufthansa, and ANA illustrate how airlines are addressing the challenges of sleeping in economy class. By adapting their seating arrangements, these carriers provide passengers with more comfortable options for resting during long flights, enhancing the overall travel experience without the need to upgrade to more expensive classes.
Related news: https://airguide.info/?s=economy+class, https://airguide.info/category/magazineonline/airlines/airline-in-flight-services/
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com