Air New Zealand upgrades economy Skycouch product to better suit young children

5 March, 2018

Air New Zealand announced (06-Mar-2018) enhancements to its economy Skycouch to better suit the needs of parents with young children. The Air New Zealand designed Skycouch, a row of three cconomy seats that convert into a flat surface, was first introduced in 2011. 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 the service. Previously they were required to be seated on a guardian's lap when the seatbelt sign was on. A new infant pod is also being introduced. The Skycouch cuddle belt, 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 simultaneously. Pending certification and regulatory approvals, the airline plans to make the modified Skycouch product available progressively onboard its Boeing 777 and 787-9 fleets in the coming months. These improvements will also be made available to offshore airlines to which Air New Zealand has licensed the Skycouch. [more - original PR]