Want to lie flat on a long flight without paying business class money? A quiet trend among airlines lets economy passengers buy a row of seats and turn them into a bed — for as little as $60.
The idea dates back to 2010, when Air New Zealand launched its Skycouch: three economy seats in a row, with adjustable leg rests and bedding, sold as one flat surface. The beds measure about 1.55 metres long and 74 centimetres wide, and a 'cuddle belt' safety strap keeps sleepers secure. Passengers book a standard seat first, then pay an add-on fee — currently $100 to $200 on flights from the US, covering all three seats. At least ten airlines have since licensed or copied the concept.
Today's options span the globe. ANA offers COUCHii on its A380s from around ¥9,600 (roughly $60). Lufthansa's Sleeper's Row, available on all widebody long-haul flights, starts at about €159. Vietnam Airlines' Sky Sofa begins at $250 on intra-Asian routes. Air Astana, Air Austral, Azul and others have run versions too, though China Airlines and Azul dropped theirs after soft demand.
United Airlines is joining next year with its Relax Row, planned for 200 aircraft by 2030. And Air New Zealand is going further: from December, its Skynest on the New York–Auckland route will offer six bunk-style sleeping pods on 787-9s, bookable in four-hour sessions at $292 per person per slot.
The catch is availability. Because these products occupy seats that would otherwise sell, most airlines only release them close to departure or when the flight isn't full. Lufthansa books Sleeper's Row only at check-in or at the gate, and Vietnam Airlines and Air New Zealand both tie their products to operational conditions and spare seats. If the plane is busy, there's no bed — no matter how early you planned.
For travellers, the maths can still stack up. Long-haul business class routinely costs several thousand dollars; these economy beds typically cost a couple of hundred on top of a standard fare. You keep economy service — no lounge access or fancy dining — but you get genuine horizontal sleep. If your priority is rest rather than perks, it's one of the best value tricks in the sky. Just book the seat first, then pounce on the upgrade the moment it appears in seat selection.
