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.
Denne historien er fra June 2023-utgaven av Robb Report Singapore.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra June 2023-utgaven av Robb Report Singapore.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
Beachfront Paradise
Known for its intricate architecture and contemporary structures, Iniala Beach House in Phuket stands as a grand retreat just a few steps away from the shores of Natai Beach.
Emerald Magnificence
Embrace the splendours of Hokkaido's natural beauty from a different yet equally majestic perspective at Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve.
The Real Deal
In Guadalajara, one discovers the rise of luxury tequila Volcan de mi Tierra and the passion in bringing forth the highest expression of the spirit.
This Month's Feed
Only the best dining and drinking spots in Singapore.
World Builders
At Bellerby & Co., hundreds of hours are spent crafting globes that don't just depict the planet-they chart, in mesmerising detail, your individual journey or your family's history upon it.
The Home Of Equine Elegance
AWARD-WINNING INTERIOR design studio EightyTwo transforms the essence of comfort, luxury and aesthetic elegance with bespoke home solutions that are crafted to reflect one’s personal tastes and enhance your well-being.
Film-schooled
Which Autumn 2024 collection best embodies your sartorial look?
Lead With Passion
At a glamorous event in Singapore, Tumi launched the Asra collection for Spring/Summer 2024 with the help of South Korean superstar Mun Ka Young.
Bag The Look
From utilitarian daily beaters to versatile style statements, here are the latest work bags to elevate your office cachet.
The Vanity Table
The latest grooming products to know.