Pay peanuts for business class quality: New economy travel option a game-changer for long-haul flights
<p>A mum travelling with her two young children and her partner has shocked other travellers by bringing their attention to an economy upgrade available on Air New Zealand flights.</p>
<p>It’s known as the “SkyCouch” and will leave you forgetting all about the temptation of travelling in business or first class.</p>
<p>Melbourne mum Adele Barbaro posted about the economy upgrade on Facebook, where it garnered more than 23,000 comments with curious travellers asking about the experience.</p>
<p>“We got to experience the Air New Zealand Skycouch on our way here and for those that don’t know what it is, it is a unique economy option where your entire row becomes a bed,” Adele wrote alongside images of herself and her family using the pullout bed.</p>
<p>“If there is 2 of you travelling, you can purchase a third seat at half price and you will get the entire row to yourself.</p>
<p>“The legs rest all rise to meet the chair in front and create a completely flat, large play or sleep area.</p>
<p>“Paul and Harvey had a bed and so did Chloe and I. It’s the next best thing to business (but way cheaper) and perfect for long haul flights with young families. And we all slept.”</p>
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<p>The upgrade allows a row of seats to be turned into a couch or a bed after take-off. This means that you’re able to take advantage of the entire row and can use it to lounge or rest on your flight.</p>
<p>Passengers are able to purchase the flight add-on from $200 each way (based on a Sydney to Los Angeles flight) when three people have booked the seat row.</p>
<p>There’s not a separate price for SkyCouch, as Air New Zealand charges for one economy seat plus the additional fee. However, it will cost you more if you’re travelling alone as you’re reserving the whole row.</p>
<p>Many parents have praised the economy upgrade.</p>
<p>“Best thing we did was get the sky couch for our holiday kids slept 7 out of 14 hour flight that’s a win for me,” one person wrote.</p>
<p>“Skycouch was amazing on our recent trip to USA,” another added. “I wish every airline would allow this.”</p>
