Sleeping on aeroplanes is notoriously difficult, especially if you’re in economy, but Air New Zealand believes its plans for bunk bed-style sleeping pods will ensure customers get good quality rest on its ultra-long-haul flights.

The airline says its Skynest pods are a “world first” for economy and premium economy travellers.

Passengers will still have a seat, but will be able to book a four-hour sleeping session in one of the pods at an additional cost.

They will only be able to book one session per flight, and each sleeping pod will be limited to one person at a time.

Each pod comes with its own privacy curtain and a pillow and sheet, which will be changed for every new occupant.

The plan is for Air New Zealand‘s eight Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners arriving from 2024, and its current 787-9 fleet, to be fitted with six Skynest pods.

The first non-stop flight between Auckland and New York, which will take more than 17 hours, is due to launch in September. The airline’s direct flight to Chicago, which will resume in October, is also an ultra-long-haul service.

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But passengers using these services will have to wait a few more years until they can sample the Skynest, with no booking or pricing information available yet.

Air New Zealand chief executive Greg Foran said: “New Zealand’s location puts us in a unique position to lead on the ultra-long haul travel experience. We have zeroed in on sleep, comfort, and wellness because we know how important it is for our customers to arrive well-rested.

“Whether they are heading straight into a meeting, or to their first holiday hotspot – they want to hit the ground running.”

Mr Foran said he believes the pods will be “a real game changer for the economy travel experience”.

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