AUCKLAND, NZ — Parents and guardians travelling with little ones will soon enjoy even greater freedom now that Air New Zealand has announced enhancements to its award-winning Economy Skycouch.

The Air New Zealand-designed Skycouch, a row of three Economy seats that convert into a flat, flexible surface for rest, relaxation and play, was first introduced in 2011 and has revolutionized long-haul travel in the Economy cabin.

The airline has now further developed the product, introducing a dedicated infant harness and belt, allowing infants to remain lying down throughout the cruise phase of flight. Previously, they were required to be seated on a guardian’s lap when the seatbelt sign was on. A new infant pod also provides additional comfort and protection for the airline’s youngest Skycouch customers.

Air NZ Economy Skycouch Infant Harness

The Skycouch Cuddle Belt, which was previously only certified to allow two adults or an adult and child travelling together to lie down side by side on the Skycouch, has also been updated to allow two children to use it, providing greater flexibility to families.

Air New Zealand General Manager Customer Experience Anita Hawthorne expects the changes to be popular with family groups.

“The Skycouch has proven to be a real game changer in the Economy cabin. While we initially marketed it to couples, we quickly found the product suited parents with young families especially well. Parents can relax while their children are able to have their own space and flat area to play without interrupting other passengers.

“Through this process, we’ve spoken to many customers who have travelled on the Skycouch and their feedback has helped to inform the updates and refinements we’re introducing this year.”

Air NZ Economy Skycouch Infant Pod

Pending certification and regulatory approvals, the airline plans to make the modified Skycouch product available progressively onboard its Boeing 777 and 787-9 Dreamliner fleets in the coming months.

These improvements will also be made available to offshore airlines, which Air New Zealand has licenced the Skycouch to.

The airline will be displaying the updated Skycouch at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg from April 10-12, 2018.