New Zealand Tourism

Air New Zealand's 787-9 Dreamliner: A Customer-Inspired Revolution in the Skies

This isn't just an upgrade - it's a complete reinvention of the inflight experience, born from years of customer insights and cutting-edge design innovation. Air New Zealand's ambitious 787-9 Dreamliner refurbishment represents one of the most passenger-focused transformations in modern aviation.

After extensive research and testing, the airline has completely rethought every aspect of the journey:

1. Business Premier Luxe: Where Customer Feedback Meets Luxury (2024)

  • "Guest Seat" Concept: Directly responding to travellers' desire for social space in premium cabins

  • Redesigned Storage Solutions: Addressing common pain points for business travellers

  • Enhanced Privacy Features: Developed through passenger behaviour studies

Why it matters: Every element reflects real passenger needs, not just designer whims.

2. Business Premier™: Innovation You Can Feel (2024-2026)

  • Science-Backed Sleep Systems: Memory foam mattresses tested on long-haul flyers

  • Workspace Optimisation: Designed with input from frequent corporate travellers

  • Menu Development: Over 2,000 passenger surveys influenced the new dining options

3. Economy Class: Smart Innovations for All

Skynest™: The World's First Economy Sleep Pods (2026)

  • 6 Lie-Flat Beds: Bookable in 4-hour blocks on ultra-long-haul routes (e.g., Auckland-NYC).

  • Modular Design: Converts to crew rest areas when not in use.

  • Accessible Features: Designed with Mobility Cup winners to accommodate diverse needs.

Upgraded Standard Economy

  • 50% Larger Screens: With Bluetooth audio pairing.

  • Sky Pantry: Self-serve snacks available 24/7.

  • Stretch Seating: Now available on 787-9s for extra legroom.

The Science Behind the Transformation

This £X million project sets new standards for passenger-centric design:

🔬 3,200+ Hours observing real inflight behaviour
🧪 53 Prototype Iterations tested with focus groups
✈️ Collaboration with NZ's top industrial designers and sleep scientists

When to Experience It

📅 May 2024: First retrofitted aircraft debuts on London-Auckland routes
📅 2026: Full fleet completion including Skynest™ rollout

Ready to try the future of flying?
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