Beginning in May, economy passengers on Air New Zealand’s ultra-long-haul flight between Auckland and New York can book a spot in the airline’s bunk-bed style sleeping pods, which will take to the skies in late 2026. The new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners will offer six full-length, lie-flat sleeping pods called “Skynest.” The pods will include fresh bedding, a privacy curtain, ambient lighting, and a kit that comes equipped with a sleep mask, ear plugs, socks and skincare products. Premium and economy passengers will still be required to buy traditional seats for the 17-hour flight, but will have the option of booking a 4-hour pod session beginning at NZ495 ($292). There will be two sessions available per flight initially, and passengers will be restricted to booking one slot. Those opting to sleep in the pods will be in close proximity to other napping passengers and will not have room to sit up. “Double-bunking” is prohibited, as is eating snacks or smuggling in children.
