Airline licensing deal for Kiwi designed Skycouch

Media release

7 November 2013

Airline licensing deal for Kiwi designed Skycouch

Air New Zealand has signed a deal licensing its Skycouch seat product to a large airline based in Asia.

This is the first licensing agreement for the Skycouch and follows the expiry of the exclusivity period Air New Zealand adopted at the launch of the revolutionary new product in 2011.

The Skycouch is a row of three economy seats that together adapt to create a flat flexible space to stretch out and relax in. It was developed as part of a three year innovation process to re-invent the longhaul flying experience.

Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Christopher Luxon says the Skycouch has really stood Air New Zealand apart from other airlines.

“We took a deliberate decision to keep the product exclusive to our own customers initially and families in particular have really appreciated the extra space and flexibility it offers. In fact we’re so pleased with the performance of the Skycouch, we’re including 14 Skycouch rows on our new 787-9 aircraft arriving mid next year.”

Mr Luxon says the time is now right to commercialise this opportunity with other international airlines. “We’re pleased to have signed this first agreement and we’re continuing to talk with other airlines about further licensing agreements.”

Under the confidentiality terms of the licensing agreement Air New Zealand is not able to name the Asian-based carrier until next year.

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