Air New Zealand adds new 'Economy Stretch' product to its aircraft
Air New Zealand is reconfiguring its widebody fleet and will be adding a new seat product to its economy class called "Economy Stretch," which will include four extra inches of legroom.
This new class option will be the in-between of basic economy with 31 inches of legroom and premium economy with 41 inches of legroom, but the price difference isn't expected to be as stark. The exact price point still hasn't been announced, but Chief Revenue Office Cam Wallace shared the following statement, saying "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."
Related: Top airlines to fly internationally economy class
Air Zealand has been continuously dedicated itself to improving the economy experience for long-haul travelers — with products like the Skycouch — and Economy Stretch was introduced to give those travelers even more options to chose from without breaking the bank.
There's been no reports of the seat width being enlarged, but the extra legroom can make a huge difference on a long-haul flight. Economy Stretch travelers will receive the same service as the rest of the economy cabin, but according to the media release, they will receive special amenities such as a premium headset and a plush pillow.
Overall, there will be 42 stretch seats available aboard the newly reconfigured Boeing 777's and 787's. While no exact dates have been confirmed, Air New Zealand has stated that travelers can book these new, roomier spots in early-2020 for routes later in the year.
Sign up for the free daily TPG newsletter for more travel tips!
(Featured photo courtesy of Boeing)
TPG featured card
at Capital One's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 5X miles | Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel |
| 2X miles | Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day |
Pros
- Stellar welcome offer of 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Plus, a $250 Capital One Travel credit to use in your first cardholder year upon account opening.
- You'll earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which means you won't have to worry about memorizing bonus categories
- Rewards are versatile and can be redeemed for a statement credit or transferred to Capital One’s transfer partners
Cons
- Highest bonus-earning categories only on travel booked via Capital One Travel
- LIMITED-TIME OFFER: Enjoy $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $1,000 in travel
- Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
- Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
- Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
- Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
- Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
- Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
- Top rated mobile app