Air New Zealand launches economy beds

Air New Zealand says it will "transform international air travel" with the introduction of life flat beds in economy class.

The airline launched prototype designs in a Boeing 777-300 cabin, saying passengers will be able to take advantage of the new way to travel by the end of the years.

The Skycouch is a specially designed row of three seats which goes down into a flat bed, with 22 sets of Skycouch seats to be made available, in the first 11 rows of economy class. For two adults travelling, purchasing the Skycouch will be based on buying two seats at standard prices with the third seat at approximately half price. Full airfare details will be announced when it goes on sale from late April.

Chief executive officer Rob Fyfe said: "Air New Zealand is putting the magic and romance back into flying. 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!"

Air New Zealand expects to also refit its fleet of eight Boeing 777-200 aircraft from mid next year, with all Asian, North American and UK services to have the new product by around 2012. The first routes to offer travellers the Skycouch will be on selected NZ5 and NZ6 services between Auckland and Los Angeles from December followed by dedicated return services on NZ1 and NZ2 between Auckland and Los Angeles and through to London from April 2011.

Travelbite.co.uk staff

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