# Air New Zealand Skynest Economy Bunk Beds Launching Late 2026 for $495

_Apr 14 14:42_

Tags: Air New Zealand, Skynest, Auckland, New York, loyalty program, policy change, airline, program change

Air New Zealand will launch Skynest, a paid economy bunk bed product, on its Boeing 787-9s starting November 2026 on the Auckland-New York route, with bookings opening May 18, 2026

## Summary

Air New Zealand has confirmed the launch timeline and pricing for Skynest, its new economy-class bunk bed product. The product will debut on newly delivered Boeing 787-9 aircraft operating the Auckland (AKL) to New York (JFK) route. Key details:
- Launch: Bookings open May 18, 2026; travel begins November 2026.
- Configuration: Six lie-flat sleep pods in a 'V' shape (three levels) located between premium economy and economy cabins, replacing six standard seats.
- Amenities: Each bunk includes bedding, privacy curtains, USB outlets, reading lights, and a 'Nestcessities' kit.
- Pricing: Sessions start at $495. Bunks are sold in four-hour blocks, with a 30-minute turnover for cleaning. Initially limited to two sessions per flight.
- Future: The airline plans to reconfigure existing 787s later, but no changes are planned for 777s

## Why it matters

Affects Air New Zealand loyalty members and route planners.

## Sources cited

- [One Mile at a Time](https://onemileatatime.com/news/air-new-zealand-skynest-economy-bunk-beds) — Air New Zealand Skynest: Economy Bunk Beds Rolling Out In Late 2026 For $495

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