One of the largest airlines in the world will offer economy passengers a lie-flat option on long-haul international flights after licensing the concept from Air New Zealand.
The flag carrier confirmed United Airlines had licensed its Skycouch, which the Kiwi airline introduced in 2011 as a way to give economy passengers more options.
The American carrier – one of the largest in the world – announced last week that it would introduce “United Relax Row” – a row of three economy seats fitted with fold-up leg rests that create a flat surface for passengers to sleep, stretch out or watch a movie.
Roll-out would begin next year, and United said it would be available on more than 200 Boeing 787 and 777 planes by 2030 — with up to 12 Relax Row sections on each plane.
An Air New Zealand communications spokesperson said the two airlines’ teams had “been collaborating to see this take off stateside.”
“We’re not the only ones who think stretching out in economy is a good idea,” she said.
“Air New Zealand developed Skycouch in 2011 in response to a clear customer need: giving people more comfort and choice when flying long haul in economy.
“It was a smart, practical rethink of the onboard experience, and United’s decision to license the concept for it reflects both the strength of our long-standing partnership and the appeal of offering customers a better way to travel.”
Neither airline disclosed the financial terms of the licensing deal.
United holds North American exclusivity on the design, and plans to initially launch the product in 2027. Passengers will receive a custom-fitted mattress pad, a plush blanket, two extra pillows and a stuffed toy for children travelling with families.
United’s executive vice president and chief commercial officer Andrew Nocella called it an example of the airline’s push to deliver “industry-leading experiences” across all cabins.
“Customers travelling in United Economy on long-haul flights deserve an option for more space and comfort,” Nocella said.
“United is the only North American airline offering a product like the United Relax Row and is one of the many reasons why we’re continuing to win brand loyal customers.”
A spokesperson said: “United collaborated with our Star Alliance partner, Air New Zealand, on the design. United … has exclusivity on the design within North America.
“As we get closer to launch, we’ll have more details to share, including pricing.”
United did not say whether the Relax Row would be offered on its routes to Aotearoa.
The agreement to license the Skycouch represents one of the biggest endorsements of the seating concept since it was first introduced in New Zealand 15 years ago. United is one of the world’s biggest airlines and the largest if measured by available seat miles.
According to Aerospace Global News, several airlines have previously licensed the Kiwi Skycouch concept, including Brazil’s Azul and Japanese carrier ANA.