Is there a big difference between the 3 classes of seating? We're currently booked in economy from LAX but are considering upgrading! Thanks in advance..

We flew economy; the late flight from LAX to Auckland wasn't very full. Mr. Pickle and I were on the left side of the plane with an empty seat between us, and it was nice to have that extra room.

Other passengers spread out into some of the empty center rows and were able to lie down across all four seats. If we had known we could do that, we probably would have.

On the way back, we were in the last row in the middle section, and it was a bit cramped since the flight was full. We survived, though.

Although Air New Zealand has a decent amount of room, even in economy, I would upgrade if I could afford it. You'll enjoy that extra space on the long flight.

Lee Ann

It is a long flight and if you can upgrade I would do it. Having said that, I think the Air NZ economy seats have a few more inches pitch than most other airlines and is comparable to the United economy plus seats. I found the seating to be ok.

Hi Tom,

there is a difference...it's just how bad you want to PAY for it!

Your economy seats on Air NZ will be more comfortable than any domestic US flight you've been on. They'll also be showing you lots of movies, tv shows and pouring booze & wine the entire flight to make it SEEM like you're in First Class!

So, it all comes down to the room...if you have the money or the mileage to upgrade, then by all means do so! You are the only ones to decide if spending the extra hundreds of dollars per person is worth it to your personal comfort.

But, if the plane isn't so full, you may be able to score a row to yourselves, and that's like winning the lottery!

My suggestion would be to call the very nice people at Air New Zealand and ask them how full the flight is (keeping in mind I don't know if you're leaving shortly or 6 months from now, in which case,of course, everything will change). Then ask how much it would be to upgrade and you can make an informed decision based upon that information.

Hope this is helpful!

Regards,

Melodie
Certified Aussie & Kiwi Specialist

As I just spent a whole weekend with one of the Auckland - London pilots I can pass on his advice.

Business Class has the flat bed seats is very nice. My friend said he'd never fork out the extra money for it. I mean it is only 12 hours.

However, premium economy is probably worth it. You get more room (1 less seat a row I think) and a few extra perks. But more room. My friend thought upgrading to premium economy would be the way to go if you could afford it.

Economy itself is OK and gives you your own tv etc just like most of the long haul airlines.

BTW the food AKL - LAX is better than food LAX - AKL.

Hope this is of some use.

Which aircraft are you taking? 747, 777? There is a difference in pitches. What is the cost of upgrading?