Air New Zealand is setting a new benchmark in aviation comfort and design with the reveal of its fully redesigned 787-9 Dreamliner cabin. The first of its kind in the world, this retrofitted aircraft—ZK-NZH—has completed a 184-day transformation in Singapore and is now undergoing final testing in Auckland ahead of its debut flights later this month.
New Routes, New Interiors
The redesigned 787-9 Dreamliner will begin flying passengers on May 19, starting with the Auckland to Brisbane route. That same evening, the aircraft will make its first long-haul journey from Auckland to San Francisco. Additional destinations, including Vancouver and Rarotonga, will follow as more of Air New Zealand’s Dreamliners undergo similar upgrades. The airline plans to retrofit all 14 of its 787-9s by the end of 2026, with seven expected to be completed this year.
Key Destinations for the Upgraded Dreamliner
| Route | Service Type |
|---|---|
| Auckland – Brisbane | Short-Haul Launch Route |
| Auckland – San Francisco | First Long-Haul Service |
| Auckland – Rarotonga | Pacific Island Connection |
| Auckland – Vancouver | North American Expansion |
Cabin Upgrades Across All Classes
The redesigned 787-9 Dreamliner introduces an entirely new onboard experience across every cabin class. From the ultra-premium Business Premier Luxe to the reimagined Economy seats, each space reflects the airline’s signature Kiwi design elements, thoughtful innovation, and customer feedback.
Business Premier & Business Premier Luxe
- New angled layout offering greater privacy
- Sliding privacy screens and wireless charging
- 24″ 4K inflight entertainment screens
- Middle seats with adjustable dividers for travel companions
- Lie-flat beds with headrest lift for optimal viewing comfort
The new Business Premier Luxe seats—just four per aircraft—offer even more luxury. These exclusive front-row seats come with a full closing door, an extended bed, and enough space for two passengers to dine together.
Premium Economy
- Fixed outer shell to prevent recline intrusion
- Winged headrests for added privacy
- Ample personal storage space
This cabin class is designed to give travelers the best of both worlds: a comfortable premium experience without the price tag of business class.
Economy Class
- 50% larger inflight entertainment screens
- New Economy Stretch option for extra legroom
- Snack trays, passport holders, and elastic pockets
- Redesigned tray tables and tech holders
Even economy flyers will notice significant upgrades aimed at improving comfort and functionality, ensuring that long-haul travel is more enjoyable than ever.
Digital Enhancements and Inflight Entertainment
Every redesigned 787-9 Dreamliner will be equipped with a fully revamped entertainment system, offering 4K HD screens across all cabins. Travelers can pair Bluetooth headphones, control the screen using their mobile device, and access new features like Picture-in-Picture and personalized watchlists.
Smart Tech Features Include:
- Bluetooth audio pairing
- Smartphone-as-remote capability
- Flight tracking tools
- Multi-tasking screen modes
These additions make it easier for passengers to tailor their experience, whether they’re watching a film, catching up on TV, or checking the flight’s progress.
A Nod to Aotearoa in Every Detail
The cabin design embraces Air New Zealand’s roots, incorporating elements inspired by Aotearoa. From the materials used in the seat finishes to the overall spatial layout, everything is crafted to reflect New Zealand’s natural beauty and cultural values. The updated aircraft also reinforces Air New Zealand’s goal of bringing more of its national identity to the skies.
Each upgrade is a result of years of research and collaboration with thousands of customers to create spaces that feel more private, more comfortable, and more connected.
Looking to the Future of Travel
With this rollout, Air New Zealand is not only redefining luxury and comfort in the skies but also setting a new industry standard for aircraft retrofitting. The redesigned 787-9 Dreamliner represents the airline’s first full cabin overhaul in more than 15 years—and it shows.
From lie-flat beds to intuitive digital features, this aircraft delivers an experience that feels personalized, premium, and unmistakably Kiwi. As more routes come online, travelers around the world will have the opportunity to experience Air New Zealand’s commitment to excellence—one upgraded flight at a time.
