Air New Zealand bunk beds: Airline introduces long-haul, lie-flat Skynest on new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner

International travel is set for a major shake-up as Air New Zealand launches a new bunk-style Skynest for long-haul flights.

“On some of the world’s longest commercial flights to and from New Zealand, Skynest is designed to make a real difference to the journey,” Air New Zealand said.

“Featuring six lie-flat pods in a bunk-style layout between the Economy and Premium Economy cabins, it gives customers the opportunity to stretch out, lie flat and get a few hours’ proper rest in the air.”

The remarkable design shows the pod of beds, shared between six people, featuring bunks with privacy curtains so passengers can get the most comfortable economy rest on a flight.

The beds are not available for the entire flight, instead offered as an extra that can be booked for four-hour windows.

A four-hour session in the Skynest, which will be located between economy and premium economy, will set travellers back $NZ495, around $410.

Between sessions, Air New Zealand’s team will change the bedding, pillows and blankets, offering each passenger a fresh bed.

The beds can be booked from 18 May 2026 for services from November 2026.

Air New Zealand chief executive Nikhil Ravishankar says the airline continues to back innovation, bringing comfort while connecting the world to long-haul destinations.

“For a country as remote as New Zealand, the journey matters. Tourism is a $46 billion NZD industry, but growth depends on travellers’ willingness to spend long hours in the air to get here.

“Skynest is designed to help make that easier. It reflects the practical innovation New Zealand is known for, and shows how thoughtful design can improve the travel experience. By giving more people the chance to properly rest on ultra-long-haul flights, it helps make travel to and from New Zealand more manageable.”