Air New Zealand is giving further comfort choices in the economy cabin, with the announcement of an “Economy Stretch” product.
Air New Zeland Boeing 777 – Image, Economy Class and Beyond.
Economy Scetch is an addition to the economy products offered by the airline (including the normal economy seat and the SkyCouch). As the name infers – this is an extra-space economy seating product.
The product will be available as an upsell, starting at NZD $175 (US$106) one-way, customers can upgrade to a dedicated stretch zone in the first four rows, enhancing the economy travel experience by having:
- Up to 39 per cent more legroom than the airline’s standard Economy seat (indicating 11 extra inches of space, based on a 30″ seat pitch).
- A roomy 35-inch (89cm) seat pitch
- A comfortable headset and pillow designed for long-haul comfort
- Free advanced seat selection and early disembarkation
It will be introduced on the Auckland to Los Angeles route for travel from 27 February 2023.
42 seats on a Boeing 777 will have this option for customers. The seats are subject to availability and are charged on a per-sector basis.
In Quotes
Chief Customer and Sales Office Leanne Geraghty says space and comfort are always high on travellers’ wish lists. She said;
“Customers have told us they want more room to relax, and at a competitive price. Economy Stretch answers this challenge, with some luxury for the legs all while enjoying our renowned in-flight service, Kiwi cuisine and wine, and seat-back entertainment.
“Through innovations such as the Economy Skycouch and with Economy Skynest launching later next year, Air New Zealand continues to push boundaries in Economy travel.
“The Economy cabin welcomes the most diverse group of travellers. The introduction of Economy Stretch means we are providing more choice for customers at an Economy price point that will meet the needs of families, solo travellers, as well as those just looking for that little bit extra of extra comfort.”
Extra space is always welcome on long segments.
Whilst there might be some who will think “I will only fly business or premium economy” for the Auckland-Los Angeles segment due to the length, there is clear proof people still travel in the back of the plane.
I know, to some of you, this is shocking. Those sounds you hear behind the Business Class and Premium Economy cabin are actually… people behind there. Shocking, I know.
Budget is an important factor when travelling with a lot of people – be it for business or pleasure. Having the option to have extra legroom is always welcome (as can be seen with the number of extra space products deployed on airlines, as it gives those few extra inches to stretch out – as well as an easy revenue opportunity for an airline.
With it appearing on Air New Zealand Boeing 777 fleet, as refits continue, expect more routes to offer the seating type.
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