Stretch economy seats – Air New Zealand

Standard Economy seat pitch (the distance between one seatback and the next) on Air New Zealand is usually 31 inches on long-haul flights, usually using widebody (two aisles) aircraft.

Fron late 2020 Air New Zealand is going to stretch that to 35 inches for some seats that it will name ‘Stretch Economy’

You’ll also get a ‘premium’ headset and a ‘plush’ pillow for your dollar.

This new ‘Stretch zone’ will appear in Air New Zealand’s reconfigured Boeing 777-200, 777-300 and 787-9 aircraft. The seats will be placed at the front of the Economy cabin and will comprise up to 42 seats.

Chief Revenue Officer Cam Wallace doesn’t see it eroding the market for premium cabins:

“While our premium cabins will remain the first choice for those wanting all the luxuries, Economy Stretch is a step-up at a competitive price, and we’re confident it will appeal.”

Cam Wallace, Air New Zealand

2PAXfly Takeout

Air New Zealand punches above its weight in terms of service and innovation – in my opinion. They developed their own business seat, introduced the idea of the Economy Skycouch and their staff are relentlessly relaxed and friendly.

You’re going to have to wait until 2020 to purchase these seats, and the actual seats won’t be in the reconfigured aircraft until late 2020. Oh, and no pricing yet.

For long-haul – get me up the front in premium. For crossing the ditch, I would stretch to these seats (if available).