Air New Zealand's world-first Skynest™ earns global recognition

Air New Zealand’s Skynest™ has just earned global recognition as one of Condé Nast Traveller’s Bright Ideas in Travel 2026, a list spotlighting the most innovative projects shaping the future of travel. Out of more than 200 submissions worldwide, Skynest was chosen as one of only 25 winners.

What makes Skynest special
- World-first concept: Lie-flat sleep pods available for Economy and Premium Economy passengers.
- Design: Six individual pods arranged in a bunk-style layout, located between Economy and Premium Economy cabins on Boeing 787-9 aircraft.
- Comfort features: Full-length mattress, fresh bedding, privacy curtain, ambient lighting, personal stowage, charging ports, and a “Nestcessities” kit (eye mask, ear plugs, socks, skincare).
- Accessibility: Sessions last four hours, with two sessions available per flight, priced from $495.

Launch details
- Debuting on Air New Zealand’s new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.
- First available on Auckland–New York services starting December 2026.
- Condé Nast praised Skynest for helping to “democratise passenger comfort” and making long-haul rest more accessible.

The vision
Jeremy O’Brien, Air New Zealand’s Chief Customer Officer, explained that Skynest was born from the challenge of making long-haul journeys better for more passengers. He emphasized that “a good sleep can make a huge difference” and highlighted the Kiwi ingenuity behind the innovation.