IT'S ALWAYS A treat to fly business class. You pay to be greeted by name and to be handed that glass of Champagne as soon as you take your seat. God forbid, you can even ask for fresh orange juice to turn it into a mimosa. Who dares judge you? But more importantly, you pay for privacy and a good lie-down, just about the two cardinal things any frequent traveller could want.
In March, I had the luxury of flying from Singapore to Auckland on Air New Zealand's Business Premier. Everything was good, from service and food to the flat bed. Even the wi-fi (which is free across classes, by the way) was impressive; you can browse the Internet or send unsolicited photos to a special friend, if you want. However, on the flight, I also got to travel back in time. The first-generation herringbone seats-probably a big thing some 20 years ago-stood out, and not in a good way. Each seat faces the aisle, which means no privacy, and if you are lucky, you could be staring at a pair of feet from across, hopefully with socks on.
That said, Air New Zealand is finally ready for change, and what was supposed to be launched in 2022 is now ready to take off in 2024. As discovered at Hangar 22, the airline's unassuming R&D laboratory tucked away in downtown Auckland, Air New Zealand's new Boeing 787 Business Premier seats will be well worth the wait. For obvious reasons, a more conventional layout has been adopted, but designed with the personality of the country's native bird, the tui, a highly active bird that's known for its beautiful and complex song. Each Business Premier passenger will enjoy the comfort of their own space, to really cocoon and to nest.
All Boeing 787-9s will also be crowned by a row of extra spacious Business Premier Luxe suites at the front of the cabin. For a premium, it will afford you additional space to stretch out, a companion seat for company, and sliding partitions for full privacy.
This story is from the June 2023 edition of Robb Report Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 2023 edition of Robb Report Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Shine With Julia
Red-carpet elevation takes on new meaning with the Chopard x Julia Roberts high jewellery capsule collection.
Much Ado About Nothing
Is a cold, sanitised, minimalist aesthetic really aspirational? When it comes to our homes, a 'more is more' attitude might reflect a healthier outlook.
Putting The Fight In Flight
Military aircraft and their bizjet counterparts share more than meets the eye-to the benefit of both.
How Paris Got Its Groove Back
With a revitalised art scene, rule-breaking chefs and a slew of new hotels, the capital is ready again to go toe to toe with any city in the world.
The Art Of Evolution
Franck Muller transforms an icon with the new Long Island Evolution.
Urban Sanctuary
For investors who are interested in Indonesia’s property market, there’s no better place to consider than Savyavasa, a luxurious 402-unit condominium development in the south of Jakarta.
GREEN MONEY
Subrata Dutta of Samsonite on thoughtful retail practices and their impact on the environment.
The Ride Of Your Life
What could be better than a luxury cycling trip on a sultry Mediterranean island? One where your biggest hero in the sport is right alongside you.
A Parisian Dream
The Olympic Games Paris 2024 offers a unique opportunity to experience the event in unprecedented style, thanks to exclusive hospitality packages offered by the official hospitality provider, On Location.
Istanbul Is For Oenophiles
Turkey’s biggest city has some outstanding spots for wine lovers.
