Air New Zealand’s Economy Skynest has been named among Condé Nast Traveller’s Bright Ideas in Travel for 2026, ahead of its planned debut on Auckland–New York services in December.
The sleeping-pod concept was selected as one of 25 winners from more than 200 submissions worldwide. It will give Economy and Premium Economy passengers the option to book a lie-flat rest session during their flight.
Six Sleeping Pods on the Boeing 787-9
Skynest will debut on Air New Zealand’s new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, with services available from mid-December 2026.
The installation consists of six individual pods in a bunk-style layout, positioned between the Economy and Premium Economy cabins.
Passengers will book four-hour sessions, with two sessions initially available per flight. Rather than replacing their assigned seat, the pods provide a separate space to sleep for part of the journey.
Air New Zealand has announced a starting price of $495 per session.
What Each Skynest Session Includes
Each pod will have a full-length mattress, pillow, sheets and blanket, with bedding changed between sessions.
A privacy curtain, individual air vents and lighting designed for rest and waking will help passengers settle in. Other features include personal storage, USB-A and USB-C charging, a reading light, a crew call button and a seatbelt.
Passengers will also receive a “Nestcessities” kit containing an eye mask, earplugs, socks and Aotea skincare products.
Recognition for Long-Haul Comfort
Air New Zealand Chief Customer Officer Jeremy O’Brien said Skynest grew out of a challenge to improve rest on some of the world’s longest flights.
He described the concept as the result of years of design and testing, with the aim of making lie-flat sleep available to more passengers travelling outside premium cabins.
Condé Nast Traveller recognised Skynest for making long-haul rest more accessible. Its inclusion on the publication’s annual list comes as Air New Zealand prepares to welcome the first customers into the pods later this year.
