Air NZ Skynest bookings open from May 2026

Air New Zealand Skynest sleep pods to launch on Boeing 787-9 flights

Air New Zealand will open bookings for its Economy Skynest from 18 May 2026, with the product set to enter service on its new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner fleet from November.

Designed for long-haul routes to and from New Zealand, Skynest introduces lie-flat sleep pods available to Economy and Premium Economy passengers. The setup includes six pods arranged in a bunk-style layout, positioned between the two cabins.

Passengers can book an additional four-hour session alongside their seat. Initially, each Air New Zealand flight will feature two sessions, carefully scheduled to match typical rest cycles, giving passengers time to settle, sleep, and wake up gradually.

Each pod includes a full-length mattress, bedding, adjustable lighting, ventilation, charging points and a privacy curtain. Additional features include a reading light, storage space and a crew call button. A small amenity kit with essentials such as an eye mask, socks and skincare items is also provided.

The concept has been developed over several years and tested with more than 200 customers. It builds on earlier seating innovations and reflects a broader focus on improving comfort options for long-distance travel.

Pricing is expected to start from NZD 495 per session. The introduction of Skynest aims to offer passengers greater flexibility in how they rest during extended journeys, particularly on routes with some of the longest flight durations in commercial aviation.