PREVIEW

Passengers flying economy could soon be bedding down in bunk beds - 35,000 feet in the air.

In a move that marks a significant shift in long-haul travel, Air New Zealand is introducing what it describes as the world’s first bunk bed-style sleeping pods for economy passengers.

Known as “Skynest”, the design places six full-length, lie-flat pods inside the aisle of its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner - creating a shared sleeping space onboard.

From May, passengers on the airline’s 17-hour Auckland to New York service will be able to reserve a pod, with the first flights featuring the beds expected to launch in late 2026.

The pods are designed for short rest periods rather than full comfort. Each includes bedding, a pillow, privacy curtain and ambient lighting, but space is limited, with no room to sit upright.

Travellers will still need to purchase a standard economy or premium seat, but can add a four-hour session in a pod for around £215. Initially, two sessions will be available per flight, with passengers restricted to one booking each.

Those using the pods will be sleeping in close proximity to others, and airline guidelines prohibit eating, sharing beds or bringing children into the space.

Passengers are also advised to limit strong fragrances, while the airline acknowledges that snoring is unavoidable - with earplugs provided as standard.

The initiative reflects the challenges of ultra long-haul travel, particularly for routes to remote destinations such as New Zealand.

Air New Zealand chief executive Nikhil Ravishankar said improving rest options is key to making long journeys more manageable.

“For a country as far away as ours, the journey matters,” he said.

“By giving more people the opportunity to rest properly, it helps make travel to and from New Zealand more accessible.”

The Skynest concept was first announced in 2020 and builds on the airline’s existing Skycouch offering, which allows passengers to convert a row of seats into a flat surface.

The new pods represent a further step, offering economy passengers the option of a dedicated place to lie down during one of the world’s longest commercial flights.