Why You Should Upgrade to Air New Zealand’s Skycouch™

Planning a trip to New Zealand or Los Angeles any time soon? Whether you’re travelling with kids in tow, as a couple, or on your own, Air New Zealand’s Economy Skycouch™ is the ultimate way to enhance your experience in the air. Having tried (and loved) it for myself, here are the reasons why you should upgrade on your next trip with the World's Best Airline for 2020:

Two of the many Air New Zealand Economy Skycouch configurations

Kids can sit cross-legged and play games, snuggle up to mum or dad, or simply have a nap while you watch a movie. One of the best things about these seats is that it’s just like relaxing on your sofa at home! Even the armrests lift all the way up and back between the seats, so you don’t have them jabbing you in the back or sides – which, personally, is often one of my biggest flying pet peeves.

Whether you’re newlyweds, anniversary celebrators, or simply just love a good cuddle, the Skycouch is perfect for two. With the footrests elevated to 90 degrees, you can relax and watch a movie together on the flat mattress, just like you would at home.

Don’t worry about being greedy – there’s no judgement here. In fact, Air New Zealand encourages travellers to treat themselves and enjoy a bit of extra space – without the premium price tag. When I upgraded to the Economy Skycouch on a recent business trip to LA, I was delighted to have an entire row to myself and, as soon as the meal service was done, wasted no time in raising all the footrests, rolling out my mattress, and catching up on some sleep. It meant I could hit the ground running as soon as I was Stateside.

Whether you just want some extra space to stretch out or want an area for your kids to unwind, you can use the Skycouch how you see fit. In fact, thanks to the different seatbelt extensions and the 60 or 90-degree footrests, the options are vast. You can have all three footrests up and flat, some partly up, or some completely down. The choice is yours.

…because you have a whole row to choose from! In fact, you probably won’t even notice if someone does recline, as you’ve got a 29-inch-wide couch to lay down on. With the Skycouch fully deployed, the space is especially roomy and offers an affordable alternative to Premium Economy and Business Premier.

When you upgrade to the Economy Skycouch (available on all 777 and 787-9 aircraft), an entire row is booked out for you and your party. The cost varies depending on how many people are sitting in your row, with prices ranging between £100-599.

As soon as you board and find your allocated Skycouch seats, you’ll experience that fabulous Kiwi service that Air New Zealand is known for, and be presented with your individual Skycouch pack; think a selection of extension seatbelts, blankets, a roll-out mattress protector and a full-size pillow. As soon as the plane is safely airborne, you can convert the seating at your leisure. The cabin crew are more than happy to help, and there’s also a video tutorial on the in-flight entertainment system offering helpful tips, as well as a card detailing the various Skycouch configurations.

Plus, when you upgrade, you’ll still get all the fantastic benefits of flying Economy with Air New Zealand. And, considering Air New Zealand offers one of the best Economy cabins I’ve ever flown in, that’s pretty amazing. Delicious food, free-pouring New Zealand wine and impeccable service; there’s truly never been a better way to fly.