Comprehensive Evaluation of Air New Zealand's Skycouch: User's Perspective
Flying Like a Boss: An Economy Class Game Changer
April 1, 2025
Tyler Johnson
Air New ZealandCabin
Economy Class
Route Flown
Perth
Auckland
Flight Number
NZ175, NZ176
Seat Number
39HJK AND 40 HJK
Date Flown
February 20, 2025
Why settle for a regular seat when you can have your own personal couch at 30,000 feet? That's what Air New Zealand's Skycouch offers, and let me tell you, it's an absolute game-changer, especially for medium to long-haul travelers.
Now, you may ask, "How does this Skycouch sorcery work?"
Easy as pie. When booking your flight with Air New Zealand, you have the option to select the Skycouch at the seat selection stage. It's perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families who want extra space. For instance, a couple can snag an entire row for just $150 each and enjoy a spare seat between them. Considering the value, I'd call it a win in commercial aviation!
So, let's dive deeper into the Skycouch experience itself. Each seat features a footrest that can be folded up, transforming your row into a cozy, lie-flat space. Air New Zealand even provides seat extenders, a quilt, large pillows, and blankets to ensure you're as comfy as can be.
What really set this flight apart was the top-notch crew, especially on the Auckland to Perth flight. They were pros at being friendly and helpful, going out of their way to cater to our needs, even offering early snacks and promising my hyperactive kid a visit to the cockpit if they managed to sleep. Talk about service!
The catering was tasty, but I was a bit surprised to find that the kids' meal on the evening service to Auckland actually came with more food than the adult option. While I was good to go with the portion, it might be too small for an adult male on longer flights.
On the 6.5-hour flight from Auckland to Perth, we received both a meal and a snack. This was much appreciated since the meals themselves aren't particularly large, and the trays aren't either!
There was a great selection of in-flight entertainment and amenities, including Wi-Fi and in-seat power. However, on flights under seven hours, such as these, in-flight amenity kits and kids' activity packs were only available on long-haul flights, as the Perth-Auckland route is classified as medium-haul. But, kids' headphones were available upon request, and I highly recommend grabbing them as soon as you board.
Air New Zealand is the only airline in the world to offer the Skycouch, making it a truly exclusive and innovative travel experience. If Air New Zealand is an option on your route, and you have the chance to book a Skycouch-go for it! Transforming a row of economy seats into a comfy bed may not be as luxurious as Business Class, but it's a heck of a lot cheaper and provides unmatched comfort. Whether you're a solo traveler, couple, or family, the Skycouch delivers in style.
Forget about cramped economy seats and unhappy travelers. With Air New Zealand's Skycouch, the game has changed, and we're all winners! ✈️💙
Fun Fact: Did you know that the Skycouch was designed by the father of a quadruplet? This innovative seating option was born out of a need to provide comfort for large families during long flights[2].
Please note: The author, Tyler Johnson, received complimentary Air New Zealand travel for this review. All other passengers paid for their own travel.
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[1] Enrichment Data: Air New Zealand's Skycouch is a unique economy class seating option designed to provide more comfort and flexibility, especially for families or those who want extra space to relax on long-haul flights. The Skycouch allows passengers to stretch out more fully by converting three seats into a "couch" like surface. The seats also come with pillows, blankets, and a mattress for added comfort. Passengers can book the Skycouch after initially purchasing at least one economy class seat on a qualifying Air New Zealand flight.
- The Skycouch, an exclusive offering from Air New Zealand, can enhance your lifestyle during travel by providing a cozy and spacious seating solution, especially beneficial during medium to long-haul flights.
- If you're planning a home-and-garden inspired getaway, consider flying with Air New Zealand's Skycouch for a comfortable and relaxing journey that sets the tone for a tranquil vacation.
