Quantcast

Air New Zealand's Skycouch reviewed as innovative economy upgrade

Air New Zealand's Skycouch reviewed as innovative economy upgrade
Policy
Webp ce12j9cthweiupw4t58m92m5r97h
Geoffrey Thomas Editor-In-Chief - US Bureau Chief | Airline Ratings

Air New Zealand’s Skycouch offers travelers the option to transform a row of economy seats into a lie-flat space for added comfort on medium to long-haul flights. This innovative service has been praised as a cost-effective alternative to Premium Economy.

The process is straightforward: during flight booking, passengers can select the Skycouch option at seat selection. This provides access to a row of three seats, suitable for solo travelers, couples, or families seeking extra space. For instance, couples can secure an entire row for $150 each, allowing them to convert it into a couch.

The configuration includes footrests that fold up to create a flat surface and seat extenders provided by Air New Zealand. Additional amenities such as quilts, large pillows, and blankets enhance the experience. Each seat features a 32- inch pitch and six-inch recline.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

Customer service aboard has been highlighted positively. Crew members have been noted for their attentiveness, especially on flights from Auckland to Perth, where they assisted families with children by offering snacks early and even arranging cockpit visits.

Catering services include meals and snacks; however, portion sizes have been described as small. On one occasion, children's meals contained more food than adult portions.

The cabin offers Wi-Fi and in-seat power but lacks amenity kits on overnight flights under seven hours. Kids' headphones are available upon request.

Air New Zealand remains the sole airline offering the Skycouch service globally. It transforms economy seating into a comfortable bed-like arrangement at an accessible price point.

Editor's Note: Sharon traveled as a guest of Air New Zealand. All other passengers featured in this review paid for their own travel.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

Passengers flying on routes to and from the UK faced considerable disruption during the winter months at the end of 2024 and the start of 2025.

Mar 28, 2025

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby announced earlier this month at a Barclays industrial event that the airline plans to retire part of its fleet early in 2025, according to a report by ch-aviation.

Mar 28, 2025

LATAM Airlines Group is reportedly planning to expand its route network by adding Fifth Freedom flights between Buenos Aires and Miami through its joint venture agreement with Delta Air Lines.

Mar 28, 2025

Bangkok Airways is gearing up for expansion, planning to acquire at least 30 new aircraft, according to a Bloomberg report.

Mar 28, 2025

Heathrow Airport Closure: Everything We Know So Far Following a fire at a power station, Heathrow Airport Holdings Limited, the owner and manager of London Heathrow Airport (LHR), has closed the airport for at least the day, prompting travel chaos...

Mar 28, 2025

The Boeing 767, renowned as Boeing's first twin-engine widebody design, made its maiden flight in September 1981 and entered service a year later with United Airlines.

Mar 28, 2025