Air New Zealand is to re-launch its Pacific Premium Economy cabin to provide enhanced in-flight services for customers flying long haul routes. The success of the original product will also mean an increase in seat capacity on the airline”s 747. Out go 15 economy seats on the upper deck and in come a further eight seats giving a total of 31 in a dedicated area.
Speaking at the Star Alliance gathering at Istanbul CEO Rob Fyfe said that the new route flying west to London was proving a great success and that the decision to swap the Los Angeles ” London 747 had been more than vindicated. A 777 is now on that route. ”We will put a 747 on the Pacific service to London when we think the numbers will make it work and we can effectively re-organise our aircraft scheduling,” he said. Presently flying east to London takes 24 hours 40 minutes and in the other direction it is 26 hours 40 minutes. No airline uses the Boeing 777ER on the trans-Siberia route from Hong Kong to London.
The new Pacific Premium Economy operation includes a number of services similar to those now enjoyed by the airline”s Premier Business customers. These include pre-take-off drinks, printed menus and meals designed by Air New Zealand”s Consultant Chefs and Business Premier snacks. Pacific Premier Economy customers will also receive hot towels, amenity kits, Living Nature lip balm, slippers (on selected flights) and noise-cancelling headsets.
The revamped Pacific Premium Economy will be available on all long haul 747 and 777 dedicated routes.