I flew skycouch in 2023 and really liked it. My only problem was that people try to come and sit in your row after take off. I was lucky as the attendant was in the row behind going through with another customer and told the person that tried to take my seat to go away
@@KiwiSpartan1they don’t realise that it’s been paid for. typically it’s common for people who are sitting in a row full of people to move and sit in an empty row or a row with only 1 person sitting in it since typically no one’s paid for the seat.
The lounge/food/drink is just so ridiculously cheap for the airlines compared to the space on the flight that it makes sense to add it to charge higher prices or catch the few people who actually value it
The sky couch works for an adult and small child . Most uncomfortable if 2 adults try to use the skycouch , also if you try to pay for an upgrade to premium economy, you are unable to do so if you pay extra for skycouch . If you pay for economy and wish to upgrade to premium economy, you can. Hope this helps .
I always envy anyone that can sleep for 8 hours on a flight. I don't think I've ever managed to sleep that long in business class on a flat bed even with a sleeping tablet, let alone an economy class "sky couch".
I was lucky enough on my Scoot flight from Singapore to Berlin in March 2022 to have the entire row of economy class seats to myself in the ScootInSilence cabin. Curled up across 3 seats and slept 9 out of the 12 hour flight. Woke up extremely fresh in Berlin. Sadly the return flight was completely full of travel starved tourists heading towards Singapore to transit to Bali/Thailand.
I flew YVR to AKL & return earlier this year in PE. The seat recline was generous with a foot rest integrated into the leg rest. I slept 6 hours out of 14. The seat pitch exceeds Emirates PE. We booked 10 months in advance, the cost nearly doubled 8 mos later. The service and meal made me feel valued. I think the premium cost relative to their competitors, same routing is warranted. ANZ has a great PE product. Thanks for the honest review.
I travel to NZ about once a year or so. Last time I got a skycouch. I’m traveling again in a week and again upgraded to a skycouch. It’s well worth the upgrade! I actually slept well on my last trip. Much cheaper than upgrading to first class and really really worth it.
The concept is very good and would work well for family travel. However, at 6' 4" the premium economy seat would be a better value for me. At some point during sleep I think that I would extend into the aisle in the "bed" configuration.
Lol. I am 5.3" so...lol. I'm still interested ,but to be very honest ,I don't expect much for the comfort ! Lol. But it's really nice to be able to lie flat on a plane w/ o paying a hefty price for it !! Lol Also,to prevent blood clots . This should be added in the options ! 😅👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶✈️💞
Dude, I loved Virgin America! Especially the free booze in premium economy and the variety of snack boxes for sale even on short flights from SFO to SoCal. When Alaska took over, the vibe went from hanging out at your friend’s house with the coolest parents, to going to your other friend’s house where you’re not allowed to use the towels in the bathroom to dry your hands, and the only beverage options was milk or tap water. Oh and yeah, another fun Sunday morning video!
Currently writing this comment on board Starlux buisness class from SFO to TPE and still have 4 hours left of my 13hr flight to Taipei Taiwan definitely the longest flight Ive ever flown
I’ve tried all three classes on Air NZ and Skycouch was head and shoulders the best product and the best sleep. It was flat, which Premium wasn’t. It was large, which Business wasn’t. And it was cheaper than both. Solid product and highly recommended. As a solo traveller it was excellent. Flying with my teenage son didn’t work as it was too cramped
Hey there! 👋 I absolutely like your video on the flat economy seats on Air New Zealand's 777s from Auckland to San Francisco. It's so cool to see airlines offering more comfortable options for long-haul flights. Keep up the great work, and I can't wait to see more awesome videos from you! 😊I've just subscribed to your channel! 🎉
I've always been very curious about this airline's economy class seat beds & watched quite a few videos on TH-cam, but this one was really detailed & showed how to do it w thorough explanations !! 👍👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶✈️💞
14:50, Wow, Air New Zealand, Boeing 777-300ER's in flight entertainment map is identical to United's in flight entertainment map, but the color is different. How cool is that. Hope to fly Air New Zealand next year.
Air nz usually rate very highly for service which is my experience, always exceptions but I am surprised to hear that’s something you heard. It’s 23kg for checked luggage so that shouldn’t be an issue. Based on some of the ludicrous amounts carted on as carry on I suspect they could be a lot tougher on luggage. The infamous herringbone design is dated (it was next level when introduced) and is being replaced from next year but in its defence the sleep experience is top shelf for a plane and most long haul is overnight. As an aside further amenities (toothbrush, shaving kit) is available from the front counter at air nz lounges. Good watch, thanks.
Very cool video. Worst experience was taking 3 days to get back to NZ (due to flights transfers). Last flight was 11hrs KL to AKL and let’s just say i was stuck in a foetal position in economy due to someone big next to me. This is no joke. Next time it’s business or first class but since you mentioned sky couch, I could try that option next time. Thank you.
You used to be able to do something like this on Thai Airways from Bangkok to London in the 90s. The occupancy rate in economy was typically about 30 percent. The divider between seats could be taken out so you could often lie flat across 3 or 4 seats and get a good sleep, all for a standard economy ticket. It’s not easy to find things like this, these days.
Love traveling virtually with you! I'm mostly housebound, and your videos allow me to "escape" my surroundings for a while via different modes of airline travel.
Nice video. Between Premium Economy vs. the Skycouch in Economy, I would choose the latter on a 12 hr. flight. I might even select it over Business if the airline's Business class doesn't have lay flat seats. Thanks for the video.
The lie flat economy bed would be my choice, since I have a difficult time sleeping on fights. I also don't imbibe...so alcoholic beverages are not an enticement for added cost of premium, business or first class.
At 6'4'' I'll take that sky couch in an instant. I used to fly from SFO to Singapore nonstop in premium economy, I would have loved a skycouch option there.
As long as you don’t mind your legs curled a bit! Technically you could even fly through Auckland with the SkyCouch to Singapore I believe. I’ve done that premium economy to Singapore from SFO plenty, on Singapore and United and found it plenty. Then again, I’ve gotten much better and sleeping on airplanes
As long as you don’t mind your legs curled a bit! Technically you could even fly through Auckland with the SkyCouch to Singapore I believe. I’ve done that premium economy to Singapore from SFO plenty, on Singapore and United and found it plenty. Then again, I’ve gotten much better and sleeping on airplanes
@@PatrickSheaAviation We are going to try the premium economy non stop via Singapore. What’s your secret to sleeping during flights? I found it difficult to sleep while flying
@@pbfloyd9b I like to show up super early or super late. Basically either get myself tired while I’m at the airport so that I’m ready for sleep before even getting on the airplane (bring eye mask and ear plugs and put em in once you’re on board). If you don’t have time to show up early, then get as tired as you can and completely ready for bed and try to just rock up to the airport and then right on the airplane, minimizing time in the stimulating environment of the airport
Sorry but Akl - LAX flights on Air New Zealand have been going for around 40+ years, as the flight from LAX used to terminate at LHR. Nz001 and Nz002, we were able to sell both the London L.A. and the London Auckland services. They stopped the London L.A. just before the pandemic.
Chicago to Chiang Mai shortest is 22 hours w/one stop. If your ticket is at least premium economy, on EVA Air, the perks are worth it. The connection,Taipei to Chiang Mai doesn’t have them, but the long haul part was doable because of the extras. I don’t think a person can eat the amount of food offered.
You mention about it surely being quicker to fly to Copenhagen by travelling west rather than east via SFO. This isn’t the case as you spend 1hr30 less in the air going via North America. Distance is similar but flying east you go WITH the jet stream rather than against it.
for my flight down under? does New Zealand use "down under" as a descriptor too? I honestly never stopped to think about that but it does kind of make sense. I just only ever associated it with Australia for some reason.
I’m going to NZ in 2025 solo, and will be comparing price differences between sky couch and a premium economy seat. Thrilled that Air New Zealand is now offering nonstop service from Chicago. One of the differences to consider is the amount of luggage you are allowed varies between the two classes.
I travelled to New Zealand in 2023, flying to Auckland in skycouch and returning to Chicago in premium economy. Skycouch was definitely the superior product. While the actual seat is preferable in premium economy and the food is better there as well, the lie-flat bed was unmatched. It's 16 hours from Chicago, and being able to spend much of that asleep made for one of the best flights I've ever had.
Nice review of the skycouch! Just point to note AirNZ first direct AKL-LAX fight was in 1984 way earlier than you indicated in your video around 22:50. No biggie but yeah Air NZ has been doing this for a good while..
We flew from Brisbane to Aukland in business class and don't understand why you or anyone callis it "infamous"? We found the seats AWESOME and the service UNMATCHED. We are United Polaris (which is also awesome) but we have to say, the service we received on this relatively short flight (3 hours) was incredible! We didn't even know about the sky couch. I think that's a great idea!
Yes, how I miss Virgin America! Used to fly Philadelphia to San Francisco weekly and it was wonderful! I was and still am devastated they discontinued service 😢
Sinto falta de São Francisco Thank you for showing the experience on NZ Skycouch. The flight looked packed, how long before departure did you book this Skycouch?
I only booked this about a week before departure and there were only 2 skycouches available still. The last one was booked by upgrade by someone at the airport check in
That business class layout looks identical to the old Virgin Atlantic setup. Reversed herringbone. Might have been revolutionary 20 years back, but by now filed under "what were they smoking" in the annuls of history.
Great review Patrick as usual - I noticed you eyeing off their business class - trust me when I say - it’s the worst product out there and it’s expensive as well - so I wouldn’t bother - stay with the Skycouch😊
Agreee- strongly recommend you save your funds mate: Air NZ Business class is not worth it- it's overpriced & lacks privacy. The cost of Air NZ B. class can get you something on JAL / ANA with way better privacy / service/ food / wow-factor. I've flown Air NZ B.class three times- it felt not much different compared to Premium Economy of other airlines to be honest... Did feel lucky flying it- but: Only Fly it if you are Upgraded for free
I've flown AirNZ in Economy and Business and enjoyed both with excellent service in both classes of service. Premium Economy on AIr NZ back in 2015 and 2017 was much better then Air Canada as you enjoyed a Business Class meal and beverages and entertainment, along with the more comfortable, roomier seat. (on Air Canada you get an economy meal with a bigger seat in Premium Economy last I checked). AirNZ's Business Class back then was much better then Air Canada's Business Class at that time and the added bonus of the foot rest turning into a seat where you could actually enjoy a meal with your partner. I look forward to your video review of Air NZ's "J" Class Cabin.
I think the reason that flying from NZ to Copenhagen goes the other way around is because of Russia. A direct flight would spend quite a bit of time over Russia. A layover in Dubai and a layover in San Francisco are actually A LOT closer to about the same distance than you'd think. (Auckland and Gibraltar are _basically_ antipodes).
here's a translation for everything in here, that is Māori! Aroha ; Love or connection Kia ora ; Hello or Welcome (note; in case you are wondering, his plane is the Boeing 777 air new Zealand INTERNATIONAL livery and model, the domestic version of either the 777 or 787 does not have screens) oh and at 10:22 that is the best in flight safety thing ever, the video is so creative! but also if I were on that flight I'd be wondering about that takeoff, no stop is wierd
Nice twist on the age-old armrests-up practice when you've got 3 rows to yourself on a long haul. I've actually taken a shower at AKL as well, but at the Qantas Lounge LOL! The breakfast buffet was interesting...besides the usual they were heavy on the beans and muesli. I didn't mind, I love free food no matter what! - Red
I've been thinking about this and would like to see the result. My preference is not to lie down but to stand up regularly. I'd like a nice standing/leaning area, where we can have a drink, maybe mix with others.
A prone position pretty much encourages me to sleep. I have trouble with reclining seats in movie theaters for the same reason. Turning out the lights guarantees snoozing.
I’ve flown internationally in business pods and premium economy multiple times… and I think I’d prefer sky couch due to not having the tray dig into my hips when trying to side sleep, or feel like my feet are constrained in the small foot well (I’m 6’2” and 235 lbs with athletic build so don’t tend to fit nice in really any seat/lie flat bed)
Another great video but I am wondering if it would just be easier to book business class. I would think that it wouldn’t be any more expensive than buying 3 economy seats.
Nice - looked way more comfy than an economy seat for 14 hours... I flew ANZ CHC - AKL - LAX the AKL stretch in Economy on a 747 via Papeete...this looks a decent option but how much is it compared to Business Class? Surely taking 3 x Economy class seats is getting close to J class money? I may have missed it in the vlog - apologies if I did. Ultimately, any flight over 8 hours is painful in Economy these days - the 'pack 'em hgh and sell 'em cheap' mentality lives on. Note: There are business class 'bucket shops' - they sell cheap J class tickects without flexibility - you are totally committed to that flight with no changes allowed, but if that works for you, you can snag serious bargains. Worth an internet search - you dont' need priority status etc, you can just pick up a reasonably priced business class seat. I did this from LHR - SIN - PER - BNE - SIN - LHR - spent about £1500 over economy - for all that flying, lie flat beds, lounge access it was absolutely worth it.
Still like 1/3 the cost. You don’t have to get the whole row. You just have to pay the SkyCouch upgrade fee as long as one of the specific SkyCouch rows are available
I think ill take the skycouch over PE. I travelled to SFO from LHR for semi-work purposes and agreed PE, but my flight was empty and I was tempted to go back to economy and nab a free row, shouldve made that call as soon as I got on/after take off instead of trying to get the best of both worlds and have dinner in PE.
Hey Patrick! Given that you are a aviation enthusiast from the Bay Area, could you please give me a rundown of SFO's parallel runways for a blog on transit + aviation. Don't worry, I will give your credit in the post. Could you give me your insights on how it works, pros and cons as well as other airports that operate like it. If you want, can you send me another article that talks about the matter. And I do agree w/ you, I love that McDonalds @ AKL.
The parallel runways are a fun concept. They draw up approaches specifically for parallel runways like this. You may see a few extra go arounds, but everyone working at SFO has great training on it. It makes for some fun operations though
I wold preferred to pay for premium economy which I think is much more comfortable sleep position. I never reclined my seat to full lie flat position even when I was in business class.
My wife and I fly from Seattle to Manila about every 1-2 years since I retired except it was 3 years during covid. I am cheap so it is economy for my wife and myself. But three and half years ago it was premium economy on a flight because it was only $50.00 per person from Seattle to Seoul so we went with that upgrade. l wish the prices still that low. So in a couple years we will go again and most likely economy. I am a retired Boeing employee and when I worked I was an interior assembly lead on the Air Zealand 777's. The staff that Air Zealand sent were some of the nicest folks but very strict on what was expected in the interior of the aircraft. I consider their interior one of the best that I ever worked on.
Yeah. 6'2" here. I tried sky couch on a long haul flight with my wife. Definitely not for me. It wasn't comfortable at all. More comfortable for my 5'7" wife though.
Given the cost, I'd go for the skycouch. I flew business long haul between Canada and the UK and I wasn't impressed with the comfort. Hard to stretch my legs out. The food was good, but that's not my priority when I'm flying. I think the skycouch would be great as you can stretch out and you have room when you're sitting up too. Nobody to disturb or disturb you when the toilet beckons and room to spread out your stuff. Wish other airlines would take it up.
premium economy food is a step above economy for air nz and you get good service... one of my flights where some pax had food left for him, he was given the choice of fresh food from business class... the man chose pancakes for his breakfast.... also ive flown premium economy air nz... and you get ice with your drinks... not in economy
So ... if 3 seat spaces are taken up for 1 (or 2???) people to sleep.....where does person number 3 go ? I'd imagine if the space only sleeps 1 (or 2 small people), the fare would be more expensive.
@@PatrickSheaAviation I can hear them one day saying this flight will not have SkyCouch service .and selling them seats for regular seats on a few flights
This is a good option if yoy have points to spare or already have status with this alliance. Other airlines like Delta, for instance, charges about the same for their first class lie flat seats.
I flew skycouch in 2023 and really liked it. My only problem was that people try to come and sit in your row after take off. I was lucky as the attendant was in the row behind going through with another customer and told the person that tried to take my seat to go away
How does that work tho U paid for those seats
@@KiwiSpartan1they have much gall
@@KiwiSpartan1they don’t realise that it’s been paid for. typically it’s common for people who are sitting in a row full of people to move and sit in an empty row or a row with only 1 person sitting in it since typically no one’s paid for the seat.
Sit in the aisle seat and when they come to use your row, tell them all three are yours and you paid for them so they can go elsewhere.
@@AbigailGerlach-zt1shcommon sense
Very innovative and clever product. Definitely something to consider if sleep/rest is a much higher priority than food/drinks/lounge.
Part owner?
@@notozknows No
The lounge/food/drink is just so ridiculously cheap for the airlines compared to the space on the flight that it makes sense to add it to charge higher prices or catch the few people who actually value it
The sky couch works for an adult and small child . Most uncomfortable if 2 adults try to use the skycouch , also if you try to pay for an upgrade to premium economy, you are unable to do so if you pay extra for skycouch . If you pay for economy and wish to upgrade to premium economy, you can. Hope this helps .
I always envy anyone that can sleep for 8 hours on a flight. I don't think I've ever managed to sleep that long in business class on a flat bed even with a sleeping tablet, let alone an economy class "sky couch".
When you spend this much time on airplanes, you slowly acquire the skill
I was lucky enough on my Scoot flight from Singapore to Berlin in March 2022 to have the entire row of economy class seats to myself in the ScootInSilence cabin.
Curled up across 3 seats and slept 9 out of the 12 hour flight. Woke up extremely fresh in Berlin.
Sadly the return flight was completely full of travel starved tourists heading towards Singapore to transit to Bali/Thailand.
drugs
same. flying sucks when you can't sleep.
not for me. well jel. @@PatrickSheaAviation
I flew YVR to AKL & return earlier this year in PE. The seat recline was generous with a foot rest integrated into the leg rest. I slept 6 hours out of 14. The seat pitch exceeds Emirates PE. We booked 10 months in advance, the cost nearly doubled 8 mos later. The service and meal made me feel valued.
I think the premium cost relative to their competitors, same routing is warranted. ANZ has a great PE product. Thanks for the honest review.
Good to know! Seems about 50/50 between people preferring the PE and the SkyCouch
Did you ever try doing a XGE for more? The XGE from VPL is my favorite BLW, but I’m sure you knew that GL and HF.
I travel to NZ about once a year or so. Last time I got a skycouch. I’m traveling again in a week and again upgraded to a skycouch. It’s well worth the upgrade! I actually slept well on my last trip. Much cheaper than upgrading to first class and really really worth it.
Totally. As long as you don’t mind curling your legs a bit, it’s a heck of a way to travel
Hubby and I used this on a return flight from LA to Melbourne. Wonderful, so much better than the premium economy going over there.
The concept is very good and would work well for family travel. However, at 6' 4" the premium economy seat would be a better value for me. At some point during sleep I think that I would extend into the aisle in the "bed" configuration.
Yea. Over a certain height, you end up having your curl your legs into oblivion just to fit. At 5’9” however I had minimal issues
yes, my partner who is 6 foot hated it, yet me at 5 foot 2, I loved it. so definitely not any good for someone your size!
I'm 6'1 that wouldn't work for me. The tight seat configuration is insane..
Lol. I am 5.3" so...lol. I'm still interested ,but to be very honest ,I don't expect much for the comfort ! Lol. But it's really nice to be able to lie flat on a plane w/ o paying a hefty price for it !! Lol Also,to prevent blood clots . This should be added in the options ! 😅👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶✈️💞
Dude, I loved Virgin America! Especially the free booze in premium economy and the variety of snack boxes for sale even on short flights from SFO to SoCal. When Alaska took over, the vibe went from hanging out at your friend’s house with the coolest parents, to going to your other friend’s house where you’re not allowed to use the towels in the bathroom to dry your hands, and the only beverage options was milk or tap water. Oh and yeah, another fun Sunday morning video!
Ha! Thanks man! RIP Redwood 🥲
I miss Virgin America too...though that in-flight safety video song would get stuck in my head for days!
@@bp2k7 who said that it ever left my head… lol 🎶tonight get ready to fly🎶
Currently writing this comment on board Starlux buisness class from SFO to TPE and still have 4 hours left of my 13hr flight to Taipei Taiwan definitely the longest flight Ive ever flown
GL
First time I've replied to someone currently on a plane
@@N9197Uhow can you be sure anytime you left a comment that person is not on a plane
i’m on the flight too!! plus i was on jx12 on the way to sfo yesterday too
Bored shitless kept having wind on didn't learn anything
Thank you for sharing. Just booked it, and we are heading to NZ tomorrow night! Yeah!
Awesome! Safe travels!
September 2024 the planes will be all new or refurbished with new seats and more premium options
New travelers have no idea how lucky they have it..when I started my flying career there was no inflight entertainment etc.
Aren’t window seats the real entertainment?
Sounds pretty good for someone who is 5 foot 1 like me. I can stretch out fully on 3 seats, and never have problems with leg room.
Totally!
At 5'1, you could fit almost anywhere...lol...However, I'd have to curl up as I'm 6'3 "and would probably have trouble stretching out on a skycouch. 😂
@@2l8mate59 It’s one of the few advantages of being short🙂
I'll borrow you to cuddle with
Great review. I will be flying air New Zealand skycouch in future. You've convinced me.
Cool! Safe travels brotha
I’ve tried all three classes on Air NZ and Skycouch was head and shoulders the best product and the best sleep. It was flat, which Premium wasn’t. It was large, which Business wasn’t. And it was cheaper than both. Solid product and highly recommended. As a solo traveller it was excellent. Flying with my teenage son didn’t work as it was too cramped
Hey there! 👋 I absolutely like your video on the flat economy seats on Air New Zealand's 777s from Auckland to San Francisco. It's so cool to see airlines offering more comfortable options for long-haul flights. Keep up the great work, and I can't wait to see more awesome videos from you! 😊I've just subscribed to your channel! 🎉
Thanks man! Welcome! I agree, these seats were a major innovation win for economy class!
I've always been very curious about this airline's economy class seat beds & watched quite a few videos on TH-cam, but this one was really detailed & showed how to do it w thorough explanations !! 👍👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶✈️💞
14:50, Wow, Air New Zealand, Boeing 777-300ER's in flight entertainment map is identical to United's in flight entertainment map, but the color is different. How cool is that. Hope to fly Air New Zealand next year.
Kudos to the pilot on that flight - one of the smoothest landings ever, I had to rewind to find the point of touch down on landing.
Air nz usually rate very highly for service which is my experience, always exceptions but I am surprised to hear that’s something you heard. It’s 23kg for checked luggage so that shouldn’t be an issue. Based on some of the ludicrous amounts carted on as carry on I suspect they could be a lot tougher on luggage.
The infamous herringbone design is dated (it was next level when introduced) and is being replaced from next year but in its defence the sleep experience is top shelf for a plane and most long haul is overnight.
As an aside further amenities (toothbrush, shaving kit) is available from the front counter at air nz lounges.
Good watch, thanks.
Great notes, thanks!
16:37 " ... we're just as thirsty ...." good point! funny point to. 😅
lol 🤣 I think about that every time I’m in economy on a long haul flight…
Quiet down, peasant!
Very cool video. Worst experience was taking 3 days to get back to NZ (due to flights transfers). Last flight was 11hrs KL to AKL and let’s just say i was stuck in a foetal position in economy due to someone big next to me. This is no joke. Next time it’s business or first class but since you mentioned sky couch, I could try that option next time. Thank you.
Skycouch is nice since you at least get the space to yourself. Still not as nice as business class, but definitely a fair-priced alternative
You used to be able to do something like this on Thai Airways from Bangkok to London in the 90s. The occupancy rate in economy was typically about 30 percent. The divider between seats could be taken out so you could often lie flat across 3 or 4 seats and get a good sleep, all for a standard economy ticket. It’s not easy to find things like this, these days.
Love traveling virtually with you! I'm mostly housebound, and your videos allow me to "escape" my surroundings for a while via different modes of airline travel.
So glad you enjoy the content! Thank you!
As a Kiwi, Air New Zealand makes me proud. Flying to California in a couple weeks, can't wait!
Awesome! Enjoy the trip!
@@PatrickSheaAviation thanks 🙏
Nice video. Between Premium Economy vs. the Skycouch in Economy, I would choose the latter on a 12 hr. flight. I might even select it over Business if the airline's Business class doesn't have lay flat seats. Thanks for the video.
Definitely. Sometimes it’s all about the cost though, and this is definitely cheaper than Premium or Business
The lie flat economy bed would be my choice, since I have a difficult time sleeping on fights. I also don't imbibe...so alcoholic beverages are not an enticement for added cost of premium, business or first class.
It’s definitely a fun choice for those who it works for. I will say that it seems that it’s not for everyone
At 6'4'' I'll take that sky couch in an instant. I used to fly from SFO to Singapore nonstop in premium economy, I would have loved a skycouch option there.
@Charlie1821 - We are going to Singapore in April and thinking about the non stop premium economy from SFO. How did you like it?
As long as you don’t mind your legs curled a bit! Technically you could even fly through Auckland with the SkyCouch to Singapore I believe. I’ve done that premium economy to Singapore from SFO plenty, on Singapore and United and found it plenty. Then again, I’ve gotten much better and sleeping on airplanes
As long as you don’t mind your legs curled a bit! Technically you could even fly through Auckland with the SkyCouch to Singapore I believe. I’ve done that premium economy to Singapore from SFO plenty, on Singapore and United and found it plenty. Then again, I’ve gotten much better and sleeping on airplanes
@@PatrickSheaAviation We are going to try the premium economy non stop via Singapore. What’s your secret to sleeping during flights? I found it difficult to sleep while flying
@@pbfloyd9b I like to show up super early or super late. Basically either get myself tired while I’m at the airport so that I’m ready for sleep before even getting on the airplane (bring eye mask and ear plugs and put em in once you’re on board). If you don’t have time to show up early, then get as tired as you can and completely ready for bed and try to just rock up to the airport and then right on the airplane, minimizing time in the stimulating environment of the airport
Sorry but Akl - LAX flights on Air New Zealand have been going for around 40+ years, as the flight from LAX used to terminate at LHR. Nz001 and Nz002, we were able to sell both the London L.A. and the London Auckland services. They stopped the London L.A. just before the pandemic.
Chicago to Chiang Mai shortest is 22 hours w/one stop. If your ticket is at least premium economy, on EVA Air, the perks are worth it. The connection,Taipei to Chiang Mai doesn’t have them, but the long haul part was doable because of the extras. I don’t think a person can eat the amount of food offered.
Nice review Pat. How did you cope with flying there and back without laying over? 😮
Sleep… lots of sleep
Excellent video as usual. Nearly 20K subs ! May I ask what you do for a living that enables you to take all these flights and live your dream?
+1! How do you afford all this??
Pat is a pilot himself.
@@wellsw3not a commercial airline pilot
@@chrisspatcher2800 For sure. Thanks for clarifying.
^ what they said
You mention about it surely being quicker to fly to Copenhagen by travelling west rather than east via SFO. This isn’t the case as you spend 1hr30 less in the air going via North America. Distance is similar but flying east you go WITH the jet stream rather than against it.
Good point! Just feels weird. I guess it’s far away in both directions
Azul Airlines use 4 middle seats for their sky sofa, which gives you more length, but less privacy, obviously.
Interesting! I am curious in other airlines’ alternative to the SkyCouch, but I had to try AirNZ first
Absolutely awesome seat/couch
Thanks for sharing. I had never heard of this up option before. For perspective, how tall are you?
I’m 5’9”. Pretty much any adult would have to curl their legs to fit
I’m the same height, so your perspective is perfect for me lol
@@keith2005 hell yea! Cheers to being average height humans 🤣
for my flight down under?
does New Zealand use "down under" as a descriptor too? I honestly never stopped to think about that but it does kind of make sense. I just only ever associated it with Australia for some reason.
I actually was starting in Australia on this trip but that’s true… idk if they also claim that title
@PatrickSheaAviation , Yeah, both NZ and Australia. Someone will fight me on this (cause it's the internet) but both countries use the moniker.
Sorry if I missed this point in the video, but what is the price difference with business class and the sofa economy ticket?
Skyclass $1,300 Business Class $3,600
I’m going to NZ in 2025 solo, and will be comparing price differences between sky couch and a premium economy seat. Thrilled that Air New Zealand is now offering nonstop service from Chicago. One of the differences to consider is the amount of luggage you are allowed varies between the two classes.
Totally! To each their own. Personally, I’d prefer the lie-flat in economy, even with less perks
I travelled to New Zealand in 2023, flying to Auckland in skycouch and returning to Chicago in premium economy. Skycouch was definitely the superior product. While the actual seat is preferable in premium economy and the food is better there as well, the lie-flat bed was unmatched. It's 16 hours from Chicago, and being able to spend much of that asleep made for one of the best flights I've ever had.
Nice review of the skycouch! Just point to note AirNZ first direct AKL-LAX fight was in 1984 way earlier than you indicated in your video around 22:50. No biggie but yeah Air NZ has been doing this for a good while..
Definitely need to try this out one day! Innovative product!
Totally! It’s a great time!
Hey Oatrick another great video. Thanks for sharing an interrsting product! Love Sundays, and your vids.
Thanks! Glad to see you back here each week!
I flew sky couch on air NZ back in 2015, It was good, my wife and i made it work.
Cool! I was curious how well it would work with 2 people
What an interesting concept. Another great video.
Thanks! It’s a great innovation by Air NZ!
We flew from Brisbane to Aukland in business class and don't understand why you or anyone callis it "infamous"? We found the seats AWESOME and the service UNMATCHED. We are United Polaris (which is also awesome) but we have to say, the service we received on this relatively short flight (3 hours) was incredible! We didn't even know about the sky couch. I think that's a great idea!
Yes, how I miss Virgin America! Used to fly Philadelphia to San Francisco weekly and it was wonderful! I was and still am devastated they discontinued service 😢
Sinto falta de São Francisco
Thank you for showing the experience on NZ Skycouch.
The flight looked packed, how long before departure did you book this Skycouch?
I only booked this about a week before departure and there were only 2 skycouches available still. The last one was booked by upgrade by someone at the airport check in
That business class layout looks identical to the old Virgin Atlantic setup. Reversed herringbone. Might have been revolutionary 20 years back, but by now filed under "what were they smoking" in the annuls of history.
lol it’s somewhat infamous, but it’s also kinda iconic
What is the website you used at 20:50 to log all your past flights called?
Looks like myflightradar24 🙏
Yuh. MyFlightradar24
Thank you
Great review Patrick as usual - I noticed you eyeing off their business class - trust me when I say - it’s the worst product out there and it’s expensive as well - so I wouldn’t bother - stay with the Skycouch😊
Agreee- strongly recommend you save your funds mate: Air NZ Business class is not worth it- it's overpriced & lacks privacy. The cost of Air NZ B. class can get you something on JAL / ANA with way better privacy / service/ food / wow-factor.
I've flown Air NZ B.class three times- it felt not much different compared to Premium Economy of other airlines to be honest... Did feel lucky flying it- but: Only Fly it if you are Upgraded for free
I’ve heard those same things. Sounds like cabin renovations are in order. Maybe I’ll hold off for those. Thanks dudes!
Nice video mate, it looks like a decent seat!
Thanks man! I’m all for this seat
I've flown AirNZ in Economy and Business and enjoyed both with excellent service in both classes of service. Premium Economy on AIr NZ back in 2015 and 2017 was much better then Air Canada as you enjoyed a Business Class meal and beverages and entertainment, along with the more comfortable, roomier seat.
(on Air Canada you get an economy meal with a bigger seat in Premium Economy last I checked).
AirNZ's Business Class back then was much better then Air Canada's Business Class at that time and the added bonus of the foot rest turning into a seat where you could actually enjoy a meal with your partner.
I look forward to your video review of Air NZ's "J" Class Cabin.
I think the reason that flying from NZ to Copenhagen goes the other way around is because of Russia. A direct flight would spend quite a bit of time over Russia.
A layover in Dubai and a layover in San Francisco are actually A LOT closer to about the same distance than you'd think. (Auckland and Gibraltar are _basically_ antipodes).
Did that last year from Singapore with my wife.
I must say that for night flights it's better than premium economy.
here's a translation for everything in here, that is Māori!
Aroha ; Love or connection
Kia ora ; Hello or Welcome
(note; in case you are wondering, his plane is the Boeing 777 air new Zealand INTERNATIONAL livery and model, the domestic version of either the 777 or 787 does not have screens)
oh and at 10:22 that is the best in flight safety thing ever, the video is so creative!
but also if I were on that flight I'd be wondering about that takeoff, no stop is wierd
Great review and very interesting offer, this Skycouch: I did not know it existed, before. But the future should hold exciting new solutions.
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Totally! Thanks!
Nice twist on the age-old armrests-up practice when you've got 3 rows to yourself on a long haul. I've actually taken a shower at AKL as well, but at the Qantas Lounge LOL! The breakfast buffet was interesting...besides the usual they were heavy on the beans and muesli. I didn't mind, I love free food no matter what!
- Red
The “intentional armrest-up” approach 🤣
1:49, It looks so cool and it's similar to Sydney's McDonald in the airport.
Sky couch looks really good, much better value & facility than Business class
I've been thinking about this and would like to see the result. My preference is not to lie down but to stand up regularly. I'd like a nice standing/leaning area, where we can have a drink, maybe mix with others.
Well Qantas' upcoming A350s may have a good solution for that!
A prone position pretty much encourages me to sleep. I have trouble with reclining seats in movie theaters for the same reason. Turning out the lights guarantees snoozing.
I’m definitely gonna have to try these seats out! Looks amazing! How much more did it cost over regular economy seats?
Totally! This was rougly $500 more than economy for this flight. Still about 1/3 of the business class cost still though
$800 eco - $1,300 couch - $3,500 class
I’ve flown internationally in business pods and premium economy multiple times… and I think I’d prefer sky couch due to not having the tray dig into my hips when trying to side sleep, or feel like my feet are constrained in the small foot well (I’m 6’2” and 235 lbs with athletic build so don’t tend to fit nice in really any seat/lie flat bed)
Yea the side sleeping is nice, but at 6’2” I’d just be worried about having to curl up on the seet
Seat*
What is the price difference between the economy skycouch and the business class?
Great video, LOVE it!❤
He gave the answer at the end of the video.
Depends on the day, but anywhere from 1/2 the cost to 1/4 the cost
And what happens when the folks in the row in front recline their seats?
Eh it doesn’t make a huge difference to be honest once you’re laying down
Excellent, im 5ft1.,im in. I never eat on any flight, get upset stomach 😩, so i don't care about the food aspect. I like my SLEEP 😴. 😊😊
Dang, this seat might be perfect then!
I'm just impressed you're able to sleep for 7 hours on a flight
lol… when you live on airplanes, you acquire the skill eventually 🤣
Great vlog 🙌🏽🛫
Thank you for sharing your flight.😊
How short/long was the bed? Looks like my legs would be sticking out.
Yea you definitely gotta curl up your legs. The flight attendants were making sure that no one was sticking out into the aisle
@@PatrickSheaAviation How many bananas or football fields long was it? If only there was, like, an ounze, but for length... 😅
My guess is they are thin because they are made from merino wool which is very warm
interesting...what's the price compare to a biz ticket compared to the 3 seats??
This flight it was about 1/3 the cost. Typically it varies from about 1/2 to 1/4 the cost though
Another great video but I am wondering if it would just be easier to book business class. I would think that it wouldn’t be any more expensive than buying 3 economy seats.
This flight, business class was 3x the cost, so it depends on what you value most in the experience
What’s the cost difference between business and the new 3 seats economy?
This was about 1/3 the cost of a business class seat on this flight
@@PatrickSheaAviationThat's awesome. Thank you for sharing the info! I'm glad TH-cam AI recommended your video. New subscriber.
it must be very rewarding to find something AirNZ is good at they certainly get 'rave-ing " reviews here in Kiwiland
It was definitely a fun experience! I enjoyed the skycouch
Another great video Patrick. However, unless I misheard, NZ started flying to the US back in the 1960s with DC8s, I believe.
... What will happen to you when a mountain or a hi rise tower building jump in front of the aircraft ... 😓
Always a good idea to buy a large bottle of water in the terminal as its seems to be a very important thing for you.
I agree. I just find it strange that only the business class passengers get water 🤷♂️
So it takes 3 economy seats to make one sky bed? Does it cost the same as 3 regular economy seats?
They have specific rows for the SkyCouch. So you aren’t paying for 3 seats, but instead one seat and then an upgrade fee for one of the SkyCouch rows
$800+ 500
Nice - looked way more comfy than an economy seat for 14 hours... I flew ANZ CHC - AKL - LAX the AKL stretch in Economy on a 747 via Papeete...this looks a decent option but how much is it compared to Business Class? Surely taking 3 x Economy class seats is getting close to J class money? I may have missed it in the vlog - apologies if I did. Ultimately, any flight over 8 hours is painful in Economy these days - the 'pack 'em hgh and sell 'em cheap' mentality lives on. Note: There are business class 'bucket shops' - they sell cheap J class tickects without flexibility - you are totally committed to that flight with no changes allowed, but if that works for you, you can snag serious bargains. Worth an internet search - you dont' need priority status etc, you can just pick up a reasonably priced business class seat. I did this from LHR - SIN - PER - BNE - SIN - LHR - spent about £1500 over economy - for all that flying, lie flat beds, lounge access it was absolutely worth it.
Typically expect to pay about 2 x the cost of one economy seat for the Skycouch.
I threw it in at the end, but it was an extra ~$500-600 for the SkyCouch. Still 1/3 the cost of business class for this specific flight though!
Once you pay for the whole row, is it any cheaper than just flying business class?
Still like 1/3 the cost. You don’t have to get the whole row. You just have to pay the SkyCouch upgrade fee as long as one of the specific SkyCouch rows are available
1300 vs 3600
I think ill take the skycouch over PE. I travelled to SFO from LHR for semi-work purposes and agreed PE, but my flight was empty and I was tempted to go back to economy and nab a free row, shouldve made that call as soon as I got on/after take off instead of trying to get the best of both worlds and have dinner in PE.
Hey Patrick! Given that you are a aviation enthusiast from the Bay Area, could you please give me a rundown of SFO's parallel runways for a blog on transit + aviation. Don't worry, I will give your credit in the post. Could you give me your insights on how it works, pros and cons as well as other airports that operate like it. If you want, can you send me another article that talks about the matter. And I do agree w/ you, I love that McDonalds @ AKL.
The parallel runways are a fun concept. They draw up approaches specifically for parallel runways like this. You may see a few extra go arounds, but everyone working at SFO has great training on it. It makes for some fun operations though
I wold preferred to pay for premium economy which I think is much more comfortable sleep position.
I never reclined my seat to full lie flat position even when I was in business class.
Yea that’s fair. To each their own
"which really ties the room together" Ha!! Am I the only one that thought of the Dude? :)
wait a minute. So, a skycoach is 3x the economy price then? How does this work?
Nah there’s a specific few rows that have it and it’s just a small upgrade from economy. It was about $800 for the SkyCouch on this flight
My wife and I fly from Seattle to Manila about every 1-2 years since I retired except it was 3 years during covid. I am cheap so it is economy for my wife and myself. But three and half years ago it was premium economy on a flight because it was only $50.00 per person from Seattle to Seoul so we went with that upgrade. l wish the prices still that low. So in a couple years we will go again and most likely economy.
I am a retired Boeing employee and when I worked I was an interior assembly lead on the Air Zealand 777's. The staff that Air Zealand sent were some of the nicest folks but very strict on what was expected in the interior of the aircraft. I consider their interior one of the best that I ever worked on.
Those are excellent stories. Fun hearing things from the production side of things!
Yeah. 6'2" here. I tried sky couch on a long haul flight with my wife. Definitely not for me. It wasn't comfortable at all. More comfortable for my 5'7" wife though.
Which other Airlines offer similar and is there a list of them? As googling this SKYCOUCH thing does not show their unique naming across airlines.
They come in different forms, but you’ll find it on a small group of ANA, Vietnam, Air Astana, and Air Austral aircraft
Given the cost, I'd go for the skycouch. I flew business long haul between Canada and the UK and I wasn't impressed with the comfort. Hard to stretch my legs out. The food was good, but that's not my priority when I'm flying. I think the skycouch would be great as you can stretch out and you have room when you're sitting up too. Nobody to disturb or disturb you when the toilet beckons and room to spread out your stuff. Wish other airlines would take it up.
So... you just pay for 3 extra seats?
Nah it’s a special fare. About $800 for this. Still like 1/3 the cost of business class
no much cheaper
@@PatrickSheaAviation $1,300
So, do you have to pay for 3 seats to make the cough?
Nah there’s specific seats you reserve for these. It’s a little more than the normal economy seat, but not as much as buying 3 seats
premium economy food is a step above economy for air nz and you get good service... one of my flights where some pax had food left for him, he was given the choice of fresh food from business class... the man chose pancakes for his breakfast.... also ive flown premium economy air nz... and you get ice with your drinks... not in economy
So ... if 3 seat spaces are taken up for 1 (or 2???) people to sleep.....where does person number 3 go ? I'd imagine if the space only sleeps 1 (or 2 small people), the fare would be more expensive.
Thanks, great option for sleeping
Totally!
Can you do that if the flight is sold out
Well there are about 10 rows of “SkyCouch” that can only be booked as “SkyCouch”. I guess it’s more of its own cabin class
@@PatrickSheaAviation I can hear them one day saying this flight will not have SkyCouch service .and selling them seats for regular seats on a few flights
Quiet for take off.
Nice video
This is a good option if yoy have points to spare or already have status with this alliance. Other airlines like Delta, for instance, charges about the same for their first class lie flat seats.
This is definitely cheaper than Delta's lie flat seats. Delta's fares are around $5,000 on these itineraries... this seat was only $800...
Did you mention starlux as well
I don’t believe so. Do they have the same concept?