Air New Zealand has done it again … NZ’s national carrier has a knack for innovation, especially in the economy cabin. It understands that not every passenger has the same needs and desires. And it walks the walk.
After introducing the Skycouch to flyers more than a decade ago, and with its Economy Skynest set to debut in 2024, Air New Zealand this week revealed its new Economy Stretch offering.
With a healthy seat pitch of 35 inches (89cms), the new product gives economy flyers located in the first four rows of the cabin 39 per cent more legroom than the airline’s standard economy seat.
Economy Stretch is now open for bookings for travel between Auckland and Los Angeles from 27 February 2023.
From next week, LAX-bound passengers will have three options for economy flying, with Economy, Economy Skycouch and Economy Stretch available on every flight.
With seats charged on a per-sector basis, Economy Stretch will be available from an additional NZ$175 one-way.
But wait … there’s more!
Extra legroom isn’t the only feature of the new product.
Passengers who choose the upgrade will also be given a more comfortable headset, a pillow designed with long-haul comfort in mind, free advanced seat selection and early disembarkation.
There are 42 Economy Stretch seats available on the carrier’s B777s.
Air New Zealand Chief Customer and Sales Officer Leanne Geraghty said space and comfort were a priority for NZ travellers given the long-haul nature of the airline’s network.
“Customers have told us they want more room to relax, and at a competitive price. Economy Stretch answers this challenge, with some luxury for the legs all while enjoying our renowned in-flight service, Kiwi cuisine and wine, and seat-back entertainment,” Geraghty said.
“Through innovations such as the Economy Skycouch and with Economy Skynest launching later next year, Air New Zealand continues to push boundaries in Economy travel.
“The Economy cabin welcomes the most diverse group of travellers. The introduction of Economy Stretch means we are providing more choice for customers at an Economy price point that will meet the needs of families, solo travellers, as well as those just looking for that little bit extra of extra comfort.”
Last chance to win a trip to NYC!
Time is running out to put your name into a draw to win a spot on a famil to New York City and other prizes, courtesy of Air New Zealand and NYC & Company. To enter, travel advisors need to log into duo (or register if they haven’t already) and complete the New York training module.
Air New Zealand won Design Airline of the Year Oceania 2022 at TheDesignAir awards in December.
Read more about Air New Zealand’s whole suite of new cabins, which Karryon previewed last year.
