Airline launches new 'cuddle class' seats

An airline in New Zealand is introducing new 'cuddle class' seats on long-haul flights.
From next April, passengers on Air New Zealand can travel in the new 'Skycouch' seats which consist of three economy class seats in a row that can be turned into a couch.
Two people travelling together can buy the middle seat for half the price of a regular seat and then fold up the armrests to give them an area the width of a twin bed.


Speaking about the new seats, Air New Zealand's Chief Executive Rob Fyfe said: “For those who choose, the days of sitting in economy and yearning to lie down and sleep are gone.
“The dream is now a reality, one that you can even share with a travelling companion – just keep your clothes on.”
Passengers with children can also use the extra space as a play area.
The Skycouch seats will initially be available on flights from Auckland to Los Angeles from April 2011 and experts estimate they will cost around £1,271 less than business class.

By Paul Johnston