Airline to launch 'lie-flat' seating in economy class

Air New Zealand is to launch the world’s first "lie-flat" seating in economy class cabins later this year.

The "Skycouch" will be introduced on the airline’s new Boeing 777-300 ER, scheduled to be delivered in November.

The Skycouch is made up of three standard seats that can be changed into a single, horizontal space by removing arm rests and covering over the footwell, although the seats do not fully recline.



22 Skycouch seats will be fitted on the new aircraft, making up the first 11 rows of the economy class cabin. They will be launched on Air New Zealand’s services between Auckland and Los Angeles, and will become available on the carrier’s Los Angeles-London services from April 2011.

A single Skycouch is likely to cost the equivalent of two and a half economy seats, though prices will not be confirmed until tickets go on sale in April.

The airline says the new seating will transform international air travel, creating a flexible space ideal for couples, and for those travelling with children.