This just in: Air New Zealand has announced a new prototype sleep product that may change economy-class travel forever! ? They've filed patent and trademark applications for an Economy Skynest which is a type of lie-flat sleep pod for economy fliers. Imagine being able to lie flat without paying for a business class seat!
Credit: Air New Zealand
The futuristic-looking Economy Skynest has been in the making for 3 years, with over 200 customers giving input to the process. Air NZ has some of the world's longest flights (the Singapore-Auckland leg is almost 10 hours long, and they have an upcoming Auckland-New York flight that will be up to 18 hours long!) and this product may definitely make those long flights way more comfortable. ? Of course this is still a prototype, and Air NZ will have to undergo a certification and safety process before the Skynest can be properly introduced into long-haul flights.
Credit: Air New Zealand
Specific details have yet to be fully confirmed, but the Skynest will be situated within Economy cabins and accommodate up to six sleep pods. Each pod will also come with a pillow, sheets and blanket, privacy curtains, and specific lighting designed to help you sleep. Ear plugs will also be provided for extra comfort, and the airline is exploring potential features such as reading lights, USB outlets and ventilation outlets! ?
We're definitely on the edge of our seat waiting for more details about the Skynest to come out. Hopefully it'll pass muster during the trial and certification period and we're sure that a successful run will mean a much better long-haul economy experience for all! ?