Air New Zealand unveils its new Business Premier seats

After an extensive design and testing process, Air New Zealand has launched its innovative Business Premier seat, setting a new benchmark for luxury travel. This state-of-the-art product is now flying on the airline’s flagship ultra-long-haul routes, including Auckland to New York and Chicago. As part of a global trend, Air New Zealand has also developed an exclusive front-row suite for travelers seeking maximum comfort and privacy.

While Air New Zealand’s Business Class has enjoyed a loyal following, frequent flyers had cited the previous herringbone seats for their limited privacy. With the arrival of these all-new seats, the herringbone concept has been thoroughly re-engineered, replacing the original two-decade-old design with a contemporary solution focused on passenger well-being.

More than 2,500 hours of in-depth passenger feedback guided the creative process. The result: a cabin experience centered on restful sleep, enhanced privacy, and generous personal space—hallmarks of the world’s leading business class products.

As the global launch partner for Safran Seats’ Visa platform, Air New Zealand moves from its previous 1-1-1 configuration to a 1-2-1 layout on the 787 Dreamliner. The seats are thoughtfully angled for optimal views, resolving the previous challenge of limited window access and ensuring every traveler enjoys the Dreamliner’s signature panoramas. 

The Visa seat is packed with cutting-edge amenities expected from a flagship Business Class, though Air New Zealand has opted not to install full privacy doors. Instead, each seat features an extendable privacy shield and a high shell that reaches 47 inches (119 cm), providing a heightened sense of seclusion. Each seat measures 20.5 inches (52 cm) wide and transforms into a fully flat bed stretching 80.25 inches (204 cm).

Entertainment is delivered via expansive 24-inch high-definition monitors, complemented by USB-A, USB-C, and AC power ports, plus Bluetooth connectivity and wireless charging for mobile devices. Smart storage solutions—including a dedicated cupboard, trinket tray, deep pocket, and broad side shelf—keep personal items organized. Notably, the seat’s recline function is certified for use during taxi, take-off, and landing, maximizing comfort from gate to gate.

Seasoned business travelers know that the first row can offer unparalleled space, and many leading airlines—including JetBlue and China Eastern—now reserve this area for an elevated experience. Air New Zealand’s answer is the exclusive Business Premier Luxe suite, designed for those seeking the ultimate in privacy and comfort.

Discover our curated selection of top-rated Business Class suites

The Luxe suites are distinct from standard Business Premier offerings. They feature fully closing sliding doors, a generously sized table, and a companion seat for shared dining—ideal for business or leisure travelers wishing to converse or dine together. Enhanced materials, including a premium Merino wool blanket, add a tactile sense of luxury. Depending on aircraft configuration, each 787 Dreamliner offers four or eight Luxe suites. Most jets feature 22 Business Premier seats and four Luxe suites, while ultra-long-range variants provide 42 Business Premier seats and eight Luxe suites split between two dedicated cabins.

Air New Zealand’s cabin transformation extends beyond Business Class, with refreshed seats debuting in both Premium Economy and Economy cabins. The airline continues to innovate with the introduction of the Skynest—six lie-flat bunks available for booking in four-hour intervals, offering Economy travelers a unique opportunity for restorative sleep on long-haul flights, for an additional fee.

For a comprehensive look at Air New Zealand’s Business Class experience, explore our in-depth BusinessClass review here.

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