Sick of flying with your knees squished? Here’s Air New Zealand’s fix for the cramped seat problem
It seems that Air New Zealand have come up with an ingenious fix to cramped plane travel.
Air New Zealand have unveiled their newest version of the incredibly advanced Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, arguably the most advanced passenger airliner in the world.
The fully redesigned Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner marks a major step in enhancing the in-flight experience across all travel classes. Named the third best airline in the world for 2025 by AirlineRatings.com, the airline spent several years planning and 184 days retrofitting this upgraded aircraft.
The revamped cabin is divided into four classes: Business Premier, Business Premier Luxe, Premium Economy, and Economy.
Solving the problem of cramped seats: more legroom!
Business Premier seats now offer sliding privacy screens, a 24-inch entertainment screen, and lie-flat recline with a headrest lift designed for comfortable movie viewing. Business Premier Luxe, located in the front row, steps up the luxury with fully enclosed suites, a larger bed, and enough space for two people to dine together.
Premium Economy seats have been redesigned for added privacy and comfort, featuring extra storage, winged headrests, and a fixed outer shell that allows reclining without disturbing passengers behind—a smart response to the frequent “seat recline” debates.
Air New Zealand Chief Commercial Officer Jeremy O’Brien spoke about the incredible exciting moment in the airline’s 85-year history.
“Seeing the first of our 14 Dreamliners to undergo this transformation arrive home is a huge moment for our people, our customers, and the future of Air New Zealand. We’re so proud to deliver this new experience for those who fly with us around the world.
“Now the aircraft is back on home soil, it will undergo final preparations including testing of its new inflight entertainment system, and a full crew ground trial to rehearse onboard service before welcoming customers on board for the first time in mid-May.”
Economy class passengers aren’t left out either. The upgrades include 50% larger entertainment screens, redesigned snack trays and storage, and the introduction of “Economy Stretch” seating, which provides 39% more legroom for a more relaxed journey.
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