Skycouch to go on sale in April
Air New Zealand today (January 26) unveiled a lie-flat seat for economy passengers.
The Kiwi airline revealed prototype designs of the Skycouch - a specially designed row of three seats - at its innovation centre in Auckland.
Rob Fyfe, the airline's chief executive, said the new product would set a "benchmark" for competitors.
The seat goes on sale in April and will be installed on Air New Zealand's Boeing 777-300 ER from November.
Fyfe said 22 Skycouch seats will be on each flight in the first 11 window rows of economy class.
The price is equivalent to two-an-a-half fares. Full airfare details are to be announced in late April.
"Air New Zealand is putting the magic and romance back into flying," said Fyfe.
"For the past three years we have been designing a new long-haul experience that will reignite the passion of today's travellers."
"For those who choose, the days of sitting in economy and yearning to lie down and sleep are gone. The dream is now a reality, one that you can even share with a travelling companion - just keep your clothes on thanks!"
He said two adults could sleep comfortably on the Skycouch and that room had been created for children to play.
The new product will not be available on the Auckland-London service until April next year.