Flying Air New Zealand’s LIE FLAT Economy SKYCOUCH for 12 Hours from Auckland to San Francisco

INSTAGRAM: @PatrickFliesPlanes
Join me today in the world’s first lie flat economy seats on Air New Zealand’s 777s from Auckland to San Francisco. Let me know your thoughts on this product. When given the choice between this, economy, premium economy, and business class which one would you pick?
Airline: Air New Zealand
Aircraft: B777-319(ER)
Registration: ZK-OKN
Flight Number: NZ8
Flight Time: 11h 28m
Flight Date: Dec 10, 2023
Cost: $1,300
0:00 Intro
1:14 AKL Terminal
2:08 Air New Zealand Lounge
5:16 Boarding
6:23 The SEAT!
9:35 Amenities
10:19 Other “SkyCouches”
11:21 AKL Departure
13:42 IFE
16:31 Stayin’ Hydrated
17:04 Dinner Service
17:33 Setting up THE BED!
19:17 Exploring/Getting Comfy
20:21 Breakfast Service
21:16 Packing Up
22:14 ANZ and SFO
23:05 SFO Arrival
24:36 Final Thoughts

[@julzs7493]

I flew skycouch in 2023 and really liked it. My only problem was that people try to come and sit in your row after take off. I was lucky as the attendant was in the row behind going through with another customer and told the person that tried to take my seat to go away

[@Alex-yy8ng]

I always envy anyone that can sleep for 8 hours on a flight. I don't think I've ever managed to sleep that long in business class on a flat bed even with a sleeping tablet, let alone an economy class "sky couch".

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

When you spend this much time on airplanes, you slowly acquire the skill

[@theinterportal]

I was lucky enough on my Scoot flight from Singapore to Berlin in March 2022 to have the entire row of economy class seats to myself in the ScootInSilence cabin. Curled up across 3 seats and slept 9 out of the 12 hour flight. Woke up extremely fresh in Berlin. Sadly the return flight was completely full of travel starved tourists heading towards Singapore to transit to Bali/Thailand.

[@JacobSteinberg75]

drugs

[@cordial]

same. flying sucks when you can't sleep.

[@cordial]

not for me. well jel. @@PatrickSheaAviation

[@ukdavepianoman]

Very innovative and clever product. Definitely something to consider if sleep/rest is a much higher priority than food/drinks/lounge.

[@notozknows]

Part owner?

[@ukdavepianoman]

@@notozknows No

[@DerultimateKeks]

The lounge/food/drink is just so ridiculously cheap for the airlines compared to the space on the flight that it makes sense to add it to charge higher prices or catch the few people who actually value it

[@tonyinsf]

Dude, I loved Virgin America! Especially the free booze in premium economy and the variety of snack boxes for sale even on short flights from SFO to SoCal. When Alaska took over, the vibe went from hanging out at your friend’s house with the coolest parents, to going to your other friend’s house where you’re not allowed to use the towels in the bathroom to dry your hands, and the only beverage options was milk or tap water. Oh and yeah, another fun Sunday morning video!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Ha! Thanks man! RIP Redwood 🥲

[@bp2k7]

I miss Virgin America too...though that in-flight safety video song would get stuck in my head for days!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

@@bp2k7 who said that it ever left my head… lol 🎶tonight get ready to fly🎶

[@alec1113]

The sky couch works for an adult and small child . Most uncomfortable if 2 adults try to use the skycouch , also if you try to pay for an upgrade to premium economy, you are unable to do so if you pay extra for skycouch . If you pay for economy and wish to upgrade to premium economy, you can. Hope this helps .

[@spark_6710]

I've always been very curious about this airline's economy class seat beds & watched quite a few videos on KZbin, but this one was really detailed & showed how to do it w thorough explanations !! 👍👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶✈️💞

[@brucecanmore3788]

I flew YVR to AKL & return earlier this year in PE. The seat recline was generous with a foot rest integrated into the leg rest. I slept 6 hours out of 14. The seat pitch exceeds Emirates PE. We booked 10 months in advance, the cost nearly doubled 8 mos later. The service and meal made me feel valued. I think the premium cost relative to their competitors, same routing is warranted. ANZ has a great PE product. Thanks for the honest review.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Good to know! Seems about 50/50 between people preferring the PE and the SkyCouch

[@Rose34561]

Currently writing this comment on board Starlux buisness class from SFO to TPE and still have 4 hours left of my 13hr flight to Taipei Taiwan definitely the longest flight Ive ever flown

[@eddieagar8039]

GL

[@mikhailjairnisbett441]

First time I've replied to someone currently on a plane

[@stephenconnolly2582]

​@@mikhailjairnisbett441how can you be sure anytime you left a comment that person is not on a plane

[@chairman_josephrblx3057]

i’m on the flight too!! plus i was on jx12 on the way to sfo yesterday too

[@TheWelwyn21]

Bored shitless kept having wind on didn't learn anything

[@brontewcat]

Sounds pretty good for someone who is 5 foot 1 like me. I can stretch out fully on 3 seats, and never have problems with leg room.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally!

[@novaguy5073]

The concept is very good and would work well for family travel. However, at 6' 4" the premium economy seat would be a better value for me. At some point during sleep I think that I would extend into the aisle in the "bed" configuration.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Yea. Over a certain height, you end up having your curl your legs into oblivion just to fit. At 5’9” however I had minimal issues

[@NomadLifeKiwi]

yes, my partner who is 6 foot hated it, yet me at 5 foot 2, I loved it. so definitely not any good for someone your size!

[@pjt3887]

I'm 6'1 that wouldn't work for me. The tight seat configuration is insane..

[@spark_6710]

Lol. I am 5.3" so...lol. I'm still interested ,but to be very honest ,I don't expect much for the comfort ! Lol. But it's really nice to be able to lie flat on a plane w/ o paying a hefty price for it !! Lol Also,to prevent blood clots . This should be added in the options ! 😅👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶✈️💞

[@matthiashaenni]

Hey there! 👋 I absolutely like your video on the flat economy seats on Air New Zealand's 777s from Auckland to San Francisco. It's so cool to see airlines offering more comfortable options for long-haul flights. Keep up the great work, and I can't wait to see more awesome videos from you! 😊I've just subscribed to your channel! 🎉

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks man! Welcome! I agree, these seats were a major innovation win for economy class!

[@coypat1300]

Hey Oatrick another great video. Thanks for sharing an interrsting product! Love Sundays, and your vids.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks! Glad to see you back here each week!

[@LMays-cu2hp]

Thank you for sharing your flight.😊

[@jerryzangrealtor]

Thank you for sharing. Just booked it, and we are heading to NZ tomorrow night! Yeah!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Awesome! Safe travels!

[@kevin19358]

14:50, Wow, Air New Zealand, Boeing 777-300ER's in flight entertainment map is identical to United's in flight entertainment map, but the color is different. How cool is that. Hope to fly Air New Zealand next year.

[@carine4318]

New travelers have no idea how lucky they have it..when I started my flying career there was no inflight entertainment etc.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Aren’t window seats the real entertainment?

[@RaySpillane]

Kudos to the pilot on that flight - one of the smoothest landings ever, I had to rewind to find the point of touch down on landing.

[@PicaloOneill]

16:37 " ... we're just as thirsty ...." good point! funny point to. 😅

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

lol 🤣 I think about that every time I’m in economy on a long haul flight…

[@kevinb6745]

Quiet down, peasant!

[@TracyMclaughlin-je6of]

September 2024 the planes will be all new or refurbished with new seats and more premium options

[@gjk540]

Love traveling virtually with you! I'm mostly housebound, and your videos allow me to "escape" my surroundings for a while via different modes of airline travel.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

So glad you enjoy the content! Thank you!

[@wenslyoscario9503]

Great vlog 🙌🏽🛫

[@matthewbaker6177]

Great review. I will be flying air New Zealand skycouch in future. You've convinced me.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Cool! Safe travels brotha

[@marcuspearson87]

Absolutely awesome seat/couch

[@NickEaster-wj2bi]

Definitely need to try this out one day! Innovative product!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally! It’s a great time!

[@ackbar01]

Air nz usually rate very highly for service which is my experience, always exceptions but I am surprised to hear that’s something you heard. It’s 23kg for checked luggage so that shouldn’t be an issue. Based on some of the ludicrous amounts carted on as carry on I suspect they could be a lot tougher on luggage. The infamous herringbone design is dated (it was next level when introduced) and is being replaced from next year but in its defence the sleep experience is top shelf for a plane and most long haul is overnight. As an aside further amenities (toothbrush, shaving kit) is available from the front counter at air nz lounges. Good watch, thanks.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Great notes, thanks!

[@CrankyGrandma]

I travel to NZ about once a year or so. Last time I got a skycouch. I’m traveling again in a week and again upgraded to a skycouch. It’s well worth the upgrade! I actually slept well on my last trip. Much cheaper than upgrading to first class and really really worth it.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally. As long as you don’t mind curling your legs a bit, it’s a heck of a way to travel

[@supremebeme]

As a Kiwi, Air New Zealand makes me proud. Flying to California in a couple weeks, can't wait!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Awesome! Enjoy the trip!

[@supremebeme]

@@PatrickSheaAviation thanks 🙏

[@hillarydemello488]

What an interesting concept. Another great video.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks! It’s a great innovation by Air NZ!

[@redcomusic]

Nice twist on the age-old armrests-up practice when you've got 3 rows to yourself on a long haul. I've actually taken a shower at AKL as well, but at the Qantas Lounge LOL! The breakfast buffet was interesting...besides the usual they were heavy on the beans and muesli. I didn't mind, I love free food no matter what! - Red

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

The “intentional armrest-up” approach 🤣

[@roberthunter6927]

Excellent review!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks!

[@newYorkStories]

Thanks for this video!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks! Glad you liked it!

[@aprianto1985]

Great information

[@tally1604]

That business class layout looks identical to the old Virgin Atlantic setup. Reversed herringbone. Might have been revolutionary 20 years back, but by now filed under "what were they smoking" in the annuls of history.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

lol it’s somewhat infamous, but it’s also kinda iconic

[@elainegw]

Quiet for take off. Nice video

[@Detvanliga]

Great review and very interesting offer, this Skycouch: I did not know it existed, before. But the future should hold exciting new solutions. .

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally! Thanks!

[@kevin19358]

1:49, It looks so cool and it's similar to Sydney's McDonald in the airport.

[@katewhite2465]

The lie flat economy bed would be my choice, since I have a difficult time sleeping on fights. I also don't imbibe...so alcoholic beverages are not an enticement for added cost of premium, business or first class.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

It’s definitely a fun choice for those who it works for. I will say that it seems that it’s not for everyone

[@PaulStewartAviation]

Nice video mate, it looks like a decent seat!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks man! I’m all for this seat

[@MarkMcLT]

"which really ties the room together" Ha!! Am I the only one that thought of the Dude? :)

[@olayinkaoyo]

Nice video. Between Premium Economy vs. the Skycouch in Economy, I would choose the latter on a 12 hr. flight. I might even select it over Business if the airline's Business class doesn't have lay flat seats. Thanks for the video.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Definitely. Sometimes it’s all about the cost though, and this is definitely cheaper than Premium or Business

[@Charlie1821]

At 6'4'' I'll take that sky couch in an instant. I used to fly from SFO to Singapore nonstop in premium economy, I would have loved a skycouch option there.

[@pbfloyd9b]

@Charlie1821 - We are going to Singapore in April and thinking about the non stop premium economy from SFO. How did you like it?

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

As long as you don’t mind your legs curled a bit! Technically you could even fly through Auckland with the SkyCouch to Singapore I believe. I’ve done that premium economy to Singapore from SFO plenty, on Singapore and United and found it plenty. Then again, I’ve gotten much better and sleeping on airplanes

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

As long as you don’t mind your legs curled a bit! Technically you could even fly through Auckland with the SkyCouch to Singapore I believe. I’ve done that premium economy to Singapore from SFO plenty, on Singapore and United and found it plenty. Then again, I’ve gotten much better and sleeping on airplanes

[@pbfloyd9b]

@@PatrickSheaAviation We are going to try the premium economy non stop via Singapore. What’s your secret to sleeping during flights? I found it difficult to sleep while flying

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

@@pbfloyd9b I like to show up super early or super late. Basically either get myself tired while I’m at the airport so that I’m ready for sleep before even getting on the airplane (bring eye mask and ear plugs and put em in once you’re on board). If you don’t have time to show up early, then get as tired as you can and completely ready for bed and try to just rock up to the airport and then right on the airplane, minimizing time in the stimulating environment of the airport

[@CumulusGranitis]

I've flown AirNZ in Economy and Business and enjoyed both with excellent service in both classes of service. Premium Economy on AIr NZ back in 2015 and 2017 was much better then Air Canada as you enjoyed a Business Class meal and beverages and entertainment, along with the more comfortable, roomier seat. (on Air Canada you get an economy meal with a bigger seat in Premium Economy last I checked). AirNZ's Business Class back then was much better then Air Canada's Business Class at that time and the added bonus of the foot rest turning into a seat where you could actually enjoy a meal with your partner. I look forward to your video review of Air NZ's "J" Class Cabin.

[@taplunkers7959]

Cool vid

[@dannyong4843]

Sinto falta de São Francisco Thank you for showing the experience on NZ Skycouch. The flight looked packed, how long before departure did you book this Skycouch?

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I only booked this about a week before departure and there were only 2 skycouches available still. The last one was booked by upgrade by someone at the airport check in

[@treyb.194]

I'm just impressed you're able to sleep for 7 hours on a flight

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

lol… when you live on airplanes, you acquire the skill eventually 🤣

[@hovelad8214]

Always a good idea to buy a large bottle of water in the terminal as its seems to be a very important thing for you.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I agree. I just find it strange that only the business class passengers get water 🤷‍♂️

[@mlo8081]

Very cool product, hadn't heard of it before. Can't imagine going 13 hours in a regular economy seat!!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally! Although I’ve done it… it’s not the best way to spend 13 hours

[@jimbo6059]

Sorry but Akl - LAX flights on Air New Zealand have been going for around 40+ years, as the flight from LAX used to terminate at LHR. Nz001 and Nz002, we were able to sell both the London L.A. and the London Auckland services. They stopped the London L.A. just before the pandemic.

[@JohnNorris1977]

Nice review Pat. How did you cope with flying there and back without laying over? 😮

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Sleep… lots of sleep

[@gerardmackay8909]

You mention about it surely being quicker to fly to Copenhagen by travelling west rather than east via SFO. This isn’t the case as you spend 1hr30 less in the air going via North America. Distance is similar but flying east you go WITH the jet stream rather than against it.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Good point! Just feels weird. I guess it’s far away in both directions

[@PeteBoxster]

Did that last year from Singapore with my wife. I must say that for night flights it's better than premium economy.

[@cmair77]

I flew sky couch on air NZ back in 2015, It was good, my wife and i made it work.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Cool! I was curious how well it would work with 2 people

[@patriciafuchs5970]

Nice review.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks!

[@naturalPaths]

Coffin Coach. Gotta love it.

[@lindapark8467]

I’m going to NZ in 2025 solo, and will be comparing price differences between sky couch and a premium economy seat. Thrilled that Air New Zealand is now offering nonstop service from Chicago. One of the differences to consider is the amount of luggage you are allowed varies between the two classes.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally! To each their own. Personally, I’d prefer the lie-flat in economy, even with less perks

[@davidburrow5895]

I travelled to New Zealand in 2023, flying to Auckland in skycouch and returning to Chicago in premium economy. Skycouch was definitely the superior product. While the actual seat is preferable in premium economy and the food is better there as well, the lie-flat bed was unmatched. It's 16 hours from Chicago, and being able to spend much of that asleep made for one of the best flights I've ever had.

[@prechathenomadmama]

I’m definitely gonna have to try these seats out! Looks amazing! How much more did it cost over regular economy seats?

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally! This was rougly $500 more than economy for this flight. Still about 1/3 of the business class cost still though

[@Ishan.patel91]

I'd love to be as articulate as you! Big props!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks!

[@santoshgujar3796]

Thanks, great option for sleeping

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally!

[@johnmichaellund]

Azul Airlines use 4 middle seats for their sky sofa, which gives you more length, but less privacy, obviously.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Interesting! I am curious in other airlines’ alternative to the SkyCouch, but I had to try AirNZ first

[@mikeske9777]

My wife and I fly from Seattle to Manila about every 1-2 years since I retired except it was 3 years during covid. I am cheap so it is economy for my wife and myself. But three and half years ago it was premium economy on a flight because it was only $50.00 per person from Seattle to Seoul so we went with that upgrade. l wish the prices still that low. So in a couple years we will go again and most likely economy. I am a retired Boeing employee and when I worked I was an interior assembly lead on the Air Zealand 777's. The staff that Air Zealand sent were some of the nicest folks but very strict on what was expected in the interior of the aircraft. I consider their interior one of the best that I ever worked on.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Those are excellent stories. Fun hearing things from the production side of things!

[@herranton]

I think the reason that flying from NZ to Copenhagen goes the other way around is because of Russia. A direct flight would spend quite a bit of time over Russia. A layover in Dubai and a layover in San Francisco are actually A LOT closer to about the same distance than you'd think. (Auckland and Gibraltar are _basically_ antipodes).

[@keith2005]

Thanks for sharing. I had never heard of this up option before. For perspective, how tall are you?

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I’m 5’9”. Pretty much any adult would have to curl their legs to fit

[@keith2005]

I’m the same height, so your perspective is perfect for me lol

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

@@keith2005 hell yea! Cheers to being average height humans 🤣

[@stevene465]

Great review Patrick as usual - I noticed you eyeing off their business class - trust me when I say - it’s the worst product out there and it’s expensive as well - so I wouldn’t bother - stay with the Skycouch😊

[@aldencai1143]

Agreee- strongly recommend you save your funds mate: Air NZ Business class is not worth it- it's overpriced & lacks privacy. The cost of Air NZ B. class can get you something on JAL / ANA with way better privacy / service/ food / wow-factor. I've flown Air NZ B.class three times- it felt not much different compared to Premium Economy of other airlines to be honest... Did feel lucky flying it- but: Only Fly it if you are Upgraded for free

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I’ve heard those same things. Sounds like cabin renovations are in order. Maybe I’ll hold off for those. Thanks dudes!

[@herenow6953]

Nice - looked way more comfy than an economy seat for 14 hours... I flew ANZ CHC - AKL - LAX the AKL stretch in Economy on a 747 via Papeete...this looks a decent option but how much is it compared to Business Class? Surely taking 3 x Economy class seats is getting close to J class money? I may have missed it in the vlog - apologies if I did. Ultimately, any flight over 8 hours is painful in Economy these days - the 'pack 'em hgh and sell 'em cheap' mentality lives on. Note: There are business class 'bucket shops' - they sell cheap J class tickects without flexibility - you are totally committed to that flight with no changes allowed, but if that works for you, you can snag serious bargains. Worth an internet search - you dont' need priority status etc, you can just pick up a reasonably priced business class seat. I did this from LHR - SIN - PER - BNE - SIN - LHR - spent about £1500 over economy - for all that flying, lie flat beds, lounge access it was absolutely worth it.

[@jjjddd231]

Typically expect to pay about 2 x the cost of one economy seat for the Skycouch.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I threw it in at the end, but it was an extra ~$500-600 for the SkyCouch. Still 1/3 the cost of business class for this specific flight though!

[@royeb63]

I have been lucky enough on several flights to have a 3-seater to myself, but I can't get any good sleep on it. It's just too short. Sleeping with my legs bent gives me cramps. I have also had the privilege to have a 4-seater to myself. That was excellent. Last time was a Qatar 777 with a 2-4-2 economy class layout. Best flight in a long time. (Except for when Qatar has some "seating issue" as the display said on the boarding pass scanner, and they upgraded me to business class.) 🙂

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Dang that’s awesome!

[@OscyJack-]

Neat idea

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally!

[@AboutPlanes]

What is the price difference between the economy skycouch and the business class? Great video, LOVE it!❤

[@canyonoverlook9937]

He gave the answer at the end of the video.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Depends on the day, but anywhere from 1/2 the cost to 1/4 the cost

[@slamtilt01]

Reminds me of an overnight sleeping berth on a bus. Just less rocky.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

And like $1299 more dollars 🤣

[@Hoovie9596]

Excellent video as usual. Nearly 20K subs ! May I ask what you do for a living that enables you to take all these flights and live your dream?

[@elipson198]

+1! How do you afford all this??

[@wellsw3]

Pat is a pilot himself.

[@chrisspatcher2800]

@@wellsw3not a commercial airline pilot

[@wellsw3]

@@chrisspatcher2800 For sure. Thanks for clarifying.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

^ what they said

[@edjack1993]

Speaking from experience, it’s a squeeze with two adults. If we book one, I tend to let my wife lie out, whilst I’ll stretch my legs out where I can find space (I’m such a chivalrous gent 😀). It’s still comfortable, but not lie flat for both. You can ‘spoon’ but inevitably you’ll need to move around in your sleep and, given that there’s very little space either side of you both when lying like that, moving around just wakes you both up. Having used the sky couch solo, however, it’s a real treat. Feels like a little oasis in Economy! Just prepare yourself for jealous stares from your fellow Economy passengers 😁 Cost-wise, for flights we’ve used it on (Auckland - Tokyo, Auckland - LA) the Sky couch seems to work out at roughly twice the cost of a premium economy seat. So as a couple, it’s a toss up as to which features you value more. For a solo traveller, in terms of cost it’s basically like an intermediate class between Premium Economy and Business on Air NZ. I struggle to sleep in the Premium Economy seats, so the Sky Couch does give you that for the money. As with everything, just a question of how you want to spend your money. Am looking forward to trying the Air NZ Skynest when they introduce that. It might be the ideal compromise - as long as it is well ventilated…

[@katrinaluxford6400]

I would definitely have the sky Couch as I have a bad knee.

[@johanventer1478]

... What will happen to you when a mountain or a hi rise tower building jump in front of the aircraft ... 😓

[@elliebeep27]

Virgin America was the best. Flew 'em a lot out of LAX! Skycouch has always been really appealing from first hearing about it, seems like it's definitely worth the cash. the business class looks like what I just flew on Virgin Atlantic last month in the A333. It was comfortable, but really felt cramped and I'm not claustrophobic, and am a small person in general! I couldn't imagine a normal sized person enjoying it.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I’ve heard *interesting* things about Air NZ and Virgin Atlantic business class… but oh how I miss Virgin America!

[@elliebeep27]

The A350 Upper Class in Virgin is GREAT! But the A333 is such a weird set-up. Not a fan of the coffin seats or how you can see everyone's head and feet!@@PatrickSheaAviation

[@_autom]

so that MacDonald's is a bit of a hot mess compared to that exquisite lounge. the boarding efficiency you mentioned is outstanding (i wish this were the case with canadian airlines but sadly their track records are likely among the worst) it was all going swimmingly until you got to the 'no air vents' part #brutal dig the beats right after take off and yes! free Wi-Fi ! cool concept the sky couch but i'd likely stick to premium economy tbh

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Boarding back to front is awesome! But people sitting at the front get upset about boarding late. Idk why… I only really care if I’m filming or if I have something for the overhead bin. Oh well 🤷‍♂️

[@kennethkann7931]

We flew from Brisbane to Aukland in business class and don't understand why you or anyone callis it "infamous"? We found the seats AWESOME and the service UNMATCHED. We are United Polaris (which is also awesome) but we have to say, the service we received on this relatively short flight (3 hours) was incredible! We didn't even know about the sky couch. I think that's a great idea!

[@whuwhaaa2]

for my flight down under? does New Zealand use "down under" as a descriptor too? I honestly never stopped to think about that but it does kind of make sense. I just only ever associated it with Australia for some reason.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I actually was starting in Australia on this trip but that’s true… idk if they also claim that title

[@philip1065]

I’ve flown internationally in business pods and premium economy multiple times… and I think I’d prefer sky couch due to not having the tray dig into my hips when trying to side sleep, or feel like my feet are constrained in the small foot well (I’m 6’2” and 235 lbs with athletic build so don’t tend to fit nice in really any seat/lie flat bed)

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Yea the side sleeping is nice, but at 6’2” I’d just be worried about having to curl up on the seet

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Seat*

[@rampar77]

I wold preferred to pay for premium economy which I think is much more comfortable sleep position. I never reclined my seat to full lie flat position even when I was in business class.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Yea that’s fair. To each their own

[@ChocoBabiChan]

Did an American guy just refer to hard candy as lollies? 🤣🤣🤣

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

When in Rome 🤷‍♂️

[@josetterobertson6962]

I have watched a lot of your videos because I truly do enjoy these types of videos and I love how detailed you get, but most of them have been you flying business or first class, it was only until this video that you’re in economy during the takeoff process there’s a ton of talking by children and I find that hilarious because that was not present in the other videos 😂😂😂

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

lol very true. I didn’t even catch that

[@andrewchong3333]

premium economy food is a step above economy for air nz and you get good service... one of my flights where some pax had food left for him, he was given the choice of fresh food from business class... the man chose pancakes for his breakfast.... also ive flown premium economy air nz... and you get ice with your drinks... not in economy

[@G1BB3R12H]

What is the website you used at 20:50 to log all your past flights called?

[@lucvarney7123]

Looks like myflightradar24 🙏

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Yuh. MyFlightradar24

[@G1BB3R12H]

Thank you

[@BussyboyPerth]

Skycouch looks like a great option for two kids. Can the middle 4 seats go sky couch mode?

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I believe there’s only skycouches in the rows along the windows

[@daisy8297]

That’s a shame for tall people. 3 seats wouldn’t be much use for them.

[@WarlockofSF]

WOW beds in economy ?!?!?! I almost want to take the flight just to get a good night's sleep!!

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally! I love it! And for a fraction of the business class fare!

[@serge9808]

Blimey!, how unusual economy bed seat, is it for everybody or you had to purchase the three seats for yourself ?, and I've always found the business class on this airlines (from other clips) extremely odd and with no privacy at all. Another excellent review Patrick as usual...cheers

[@canniere_id]

I flew on this skycouch many times. I always book direct with airnewzealand (never tried through 3rd party), when you get to the seat selection, you'll see a skycouch option (usually 3-4 rows start from 36 or 39) and the additional price pop up. I usually fly with my kid, so I already bought 2 seats and the extra cost me between $200-300. Price varies depending on your flying route and if you only by yourself.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Thanks man! Yea, it’s something you book specifically. You pay to have the row to yourself, but not all rows have the setup. If you’re booking an economy ticket, it’ll give you the option to add the SkyCouch

[@serge9808]

quite nice@@PatrickSheaAviation

[@JxLx2022]

interesting...what's the price compare to a biz ticket compared to the 3 seats??

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

This flight it was about 1/3 the cost. Typically it varies from about 1/2 to 1/4 the cost though

[@MrShaunG]

4:13 try delta sky Club at JFK 😂 crazy space

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I just got to their new one a few months ago. Just 1 day after it opened. Cool space… but missing showers 🤨

[@kevinb6745]

That one is nice, but the new Delta Sky Club @ ORD T5 is 🔥

[@oldporkchops]

Great review as always, Patrick! Let me guess, you're a pilot with United? Three pillows and three of almost everything else, but was three (or two) meal servings possible? I usually am hungry from the tiny Economy Class portions. Merry Christmas to you.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

I don’t fly for United actually, but being SFO based means I end up as a passenger with them quite frequently. Merry Christmas!

[@oldporkchops]

@@PatrickSheaAviation I see. I've been enjoying your videos a great deal. They are in-depth and you cover the important bases quite objectively. I suppose you obtained Star Alliance Gold via accruing United's Mileage Plus miles?

[@louise7552]

Excellent, im 5ft1.,im in. I never eat on any flight, get upset stomach 😩, so i don't care about the food aspect. I like my SLEEP 😴. 😊😊

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Dang, this seat might be perfect then!

[@jedwards1792]

So it takes 3 economy seats to make one sky bed? Does it cost the same as 3 regular economy seats?

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

They have specific rows for the SkyCouch. So you aren’t paying for 3 seats, but instead one seat and then an upgrade fee for one of the SkyCouch rows

[@iceman9678]

I had no idea there were seats after row 4 🤔

[@coasterblocks3420]

I easily fall asleep and stay asleep on a daytime flight but for some reason cannot get to sleep when flying at night.

[@davidoneal1518]

Another great video but I am wondering if it would just be easier to book business class. I would think that it wouldn’t be any more expensive than buying 3 economy seats.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

This flight, business class was 3x the cost, so it depends on what you value most in the experience

[@chromebomb]

I REALLY miss Virgin America, I used to out of my way to fly them. RIP

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally! They were my go to whenever I could make it work!

[@pritamkoli]

Nice

[@serge9808]

Crikey! just realized of a very daft question I popped!

[@Redwhiteblue-gr5em]

I have a bad back and this would be a dream come true if more airlines do this. Instead I stay home a lot as I’m not rich enough to afford 1st class.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Totally! It’s a great alternative for a fraction of the cost! There are like 5-8 airlines that have incorporated some version of this concept. I’d be curious to see if it shows up more as flights continue to get longer

[@Redwhiteblue-gr5em]

@@PatrickSheaAviation yes I hope more American Airlines do this for coast to coast travel. I can tough it out for up to two hours or so, but anything longer it would be very painful and miserable.

[@geirmyrvagnes8718]

How short/long was the bed? Looks like my legs would be sticking out.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

Yea you definitely gotta curl up your legs. The flight attendants were making sure that no one was sticking out into the aisle

[@geirmyrvagnes8718]

@@PatrickSheaAviation How many bananas or football fields long was it? If only there was, like, an ounze, but for length... 😅

[@thyagarajannatarajan6234]

Hey Patrick! Given that you are a aviation enthusiast from the Bay Area, could you please give me a rundown of SFO's parallel runways for a blog on transit + aviation. Don't worry, I will give your credit in the post. Could you give me your insights on how it works, pros and cons as well as other airports that operate like it. If you want, can you send me another article that talks about the matter. And I do agree w/ you, I love that McDonalds @ AKL.

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

The parallel runways are a fun concept. They draw up approaches specifically for parallel runways like this. You may see a few extra go arounds, but everyone working at SFO has great training on it. It makes for some fun operations though

[@idee7896]

What’s the cost difference between business and the new 3 seats economy?

[@PatrickSheaAviation]

This was about 1/3 the cost of a business class seat on this flight

[@idee7896]

@@PatrickSheaAviationThat's awesome. Thank you for sharing the info! I'm glad KZbin AI recommended your video. New subscriber.