Air New Zealand has announced a delay in the launch of its highly anticipated new business class, with the debut now set for 2025. The airline has shifted its Boeing 787 refit program, initially planned to introduce the revamped cabins next year. While the airline’s flagship Business Premier suites will be featured on the newly designed 787s, the non-stop Auckland-New York route will not be served immediately by these aircraft.
Air New Zealand’s CEO, Greg Foran, revealed during the financial results presentation for the 2023-2024 fiscal year that the arrival of the new Dreamliner fleet is now expected towards the end of 2025. These cutting-edge aircraft are designed for ultra-long-range flights and will boast 42 Business Premier seats distributed across two cabins, including eight lavish Business Premier Luxe suites. The new 787s will also introduce six innovative Skynest bunk beds, offering economy passengers the opportunity to reserve a lie-flat bed for four-hour intervals.
In contrast, the retrofitted 787s will feature a smaller business class cabin with just 22 seats, including four Luxe suites, and will not include the Skynest facilities. The new business class aims to revolutionize the travel experience, moving away from the outdated 20-year-old sleeper shell design. The revamped Business Premier seats will provide a more spacious and private environment. These seats are angled slightly inward, offering passengers a better view while remaining close to the window.
Passengers can expect increased privacy with sliding panels, along with additional amenities such as a storage cabinet, a vanity mirror, a spacious side shelf, wireless charging, and a 24-inch video screen that supports Bluetooth audio streaming for personal headphones. The Business Premier Luxe suites will feature sliding partitions for enhanced seclusion, enabling travelers to share experiences with a companion. While Air New Zealand plans to elevate the in-flight experience with a Merino wool throw and other soft product upgrades, the dining offerings will remain consistent. Business Premier Luxe passengers will continue to savor the “Aotearoa on a Plate” concept, which emphasizes fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
