This world-first retrofitted 787-9 Dreamliner (ZK-NZH) is in Auckland undergoing final testing before it takes to the skies for the first time on May 19th from Auckland to Brisbane. Later that evening, the aircraft will complete its first long-haul service from Auckland to San Francisco.
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Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran says it’s an incredibly special moment to launch the future of flying with Air New Zealand. “This aircraft spent 184 days in Singapore being retrofitted, the result of several years of extensive research, innovation, and design by our team to deliver a world-class onboard experience.
“This is the first ever full nose-to-tail retrofit of a 787-9 Dreamliner and marks the introduction of our first new onboard product in over 15 years. We’ve completely reimagined the experience of flying with Air New Zealand, incorporating elegant design elements, innovative Kiwi touches, and features informed by feedback from thousands of customers.
The airline’s second 787-9 is in Singapore undergoing its retrofit, with 7 aircraft expected to be completed by the end of the year. All 14 Boeing 787-9s in Air New Zealand’s fleet will be updated to the new cabin layout by the end of 2026.
Aircraft featuring the new cabin experience will fly predominantly between Auckland and Brisbane, San Francisco, Rarotonga, and Vancouver, with more routes to follow as more of the retrofits are complete.
Business Premier
The new Business Premier seats have a new angle and layout, meaning additional privacy and space.
Sliding privacy screens, wireless charging, and a 24″ inflight entertainment screen
Middle seats with a sliding divider, perfect for travel companions
Full lie-flat recline with a clever headrest lift for prime movie-watching or mid-flight novels
Business Premier Luxe
Four all-new seats in the front row of the Business Premier cabin. Business Premier Luxe will be able to be booked as a paid seat select product when purchasing a Business Premier seat.
It has all the features of Business Premier, along with:
Full closing door, a larger bed, and additional space with room for two to dine
Premium Economy
The new Premium Economy gives customer more privacy and thoughtful storage to help make the space their own.
All seats have a fixed outer shell, meaning your recline doesn’t impact the person behind you
Side wings on the seat provide extra privacy
More storage space keeps your essentials within easy reach
Economy
50% bigger inflight entertainment screens, clever snack trays, and the new Economy Stretch option to give your legs a holiday too
Stowage options include a small tray table for snacks or your phone, and an elastic holder for your passport or papers
Digital innovation & in-flight entertainment
4K HD screens with Bluetooth audio pairing
Use your phone like a remote, build a watchlist, track your flight, or multitask with Picture-in-Picture functionality
