Air New Zealand's Lie-Flat Economy Seats and United's Relax Row: A New Era of Long-Haul Travel
Air New Zealand is set to launch new lie-flat Economy Skynest pods on its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft in November. These pods will be available for booking starting May 18, 2026, and will give passengers the opportunity to enjoy a flat bed without splurging on a premium cabin seat.
The pods will feature a bunk-style layout with six lie-flat spaces located between the Economy and Premium Economy cabins. Each pod comes equipped with a full-length mattress, bedding, personal comfort controls, ambient lighting, ventilation, charging ports, and a privacy curtain.
Air New Zealand's CEO Nikhil Ravishankar said in a statement that 'New Zealand's unique location means we understand long haul travel better than anyone.' The pods will be available for $495 per four-hour session, with two sessions initially available on each flight.
In related news, United Airlines is set to debut its Relax Row seat option in 2027. This feature dedicates a row of three economy seats that transform into a lie-flat space, complete with individually adjustable leg rests and a custom-fitted mattress pad.