Sky-high pitch: The new ways airlines are upselling seats
Airlines are increasingly introducing premium economy options, such as Air New Zealand's 'Skynest' bunk beds, to upsell passengers who cannot afford business class. These features offer enhanced comfort and privacy for a significant fee, bridging the gap between standard economy and luxury travel.
Why it matters
This trend reflects a shift in airline revenue strategies, focusing on monetizing space and comfort for middle-market travelers.
You step on board the plane with a smile, safe in the knowledge that your 'out of office' will shield you from work for the next little while.
You’ve been looking forward to this moment for months - maybe even years - but as you set off to some far-flung destination, your excitement is interrupted by a glance to your left, and a brief glimpse behind the curtain.
You know that, on the other side, is how the other half live - fancy food, flowing drinks and cushy seats that become beds.
But you're not a first-class kind of person. You're not even business class. So, you sculk to your economy seat and strap yourself in for 16 hours of limited leg-room and plenty of noise.
It's exactly this kind of customer that some airlines are hoping to be able to upsell to.
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