22 April 2009

Air New Zealand announced plans to double the number of Pacific Premium Economy seats available on its 777-200ER fleet, with the first of the newly configured aircraft re-entering service next week.

Air New Zealands Pacific Premium Economy cabin offers international travellers a taste of affordable luxury, bridging the gap between Economy and Business class. Premium Economy customers enjoy business class style food and beverage and amenities, with nine inches of seat recline and additional legroom. The new configuration will enhance the experience, introducing even more legroom, increased seat pitch and a new self-service bar area.

Air New Zealands Pacific Premium Economy class was recently nominated for Conde Nast Travellers annual Best Innovation and Design Award. Award judge and top UK travel writer, Simon Calder, praised the airlines offering, stating Air New Zealand shows kindness to the masses with its premium economy class, which is 'business-light rather than economy-plus.

Pacific Premium Economy has been hugely popular since its introduction in 2005, says Roger Poulton, Air New Zealand Vice President, The Americas. Despite the challenging economic environment, long-haul customers clearly value the experience and are happy to pay more for the superior legroom, personal space and business class-style service.

Air New Zealand is currently offering a 40% reduction on all Pacific Premium Economy fares from the U.S. to New Zealand and Australia, with a roundtrip from Los Angeles to Auckland starting from $2,279 (USD).

The airline introduced the 777-200ER into its fleet nearly four years ago. The aircraft operates long haul routes from Los Angeles and San Francisco to Auckland.