Air New Zealand launches all-new 787 Dreamliner cabin experience

The airline has unveiled its first fully redesigned 787-9, featuring Business Premier Luxe, refreshed Premium Economy, and digital-first upgrades across every cabin

Air New Zealand has revealed the first of its completely retrofitted Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, marking a new chapter in the airline’s 85-year history. The aircraft will enter service on 19 May, flying from Auckland to Brisbane and then onward to San Francisco, with seats now available to book.

This world-first nose-to-tail retrofit introduces an entirely reimagined cabin experience – the airline’s first in over 15 years. The refresh includes all-new seats across Business Premier, Premium Economy and Economy, a redesigned layout, and upgraded digital systems.

“This aircraft spent 184 days in Singapore being transformed,” says CEO Greg Foran. “We’ve rethought every detail, from textures and materials to layout and privacy – bringing together elegant design with that uniquely Kiwi sense of space and comfort.”

At the front of the aircraft, a new Business Premier Luxe product debuts, offering a closing door, expanded sleeping space, and room for two to dine. These four premium seats, located in the first row of Business Premier, can be booked as an upgrade option.

The wider Business Premier cabin features lie-flat beds with sliding privacy screens, wireless charging, and 24-inch 4K inflight screens. Middle seats include sliding dividers for travelling companions.

Premium Economy seats now feature fixed shell backs to minimise disruption from recline, enhanced privacy panels, and expanded storage. Meanwhile, Economy passengers can expect 50 per cent larger entertainment screens, smart storage touches and the introduction of Economy Stretch – a new extra-legroom option designed for longer flights.

Digital advancements extend to every cabin, with Bluetooth audio pairing, mobile remote control, multitasking functions and personal watchlists now integrated into the new inflight entertainment system.

The fully refitted aircraft, tail number ZK-NZH, is the first of 14 Dreamliners scheduled to receive the new cabin design by the end of 2026. Seven will be completed by year-end. Routes will initially include Auckland to Brisbane, San Francisco, Rarotonga and Vancouver, with more to follow.

airnewzealand.com.au