IBS Software's iRetail Platform Powers Air New Zealand's Skynest

Air New Zealand has partnered with IBS Software, a travel technology firm, to launch its Skynest product, which is being described as the world's first sleep pod experience available to Economy and Premium Economy passengers on long-haul flights.

The Skynest will make its debut on ultra-long-haul services between Auckland and New York later this year. Passengers will be able to book the experience for four-hour sessions during the flight. The integration of the Skynest product is facilitated by IBS Software's iRetail platform, which enables the airline to sell, book, and service an entirely new category of onboard products, addressing limitations of traditional airline systems.

Air New Zealand is utilizing components of iRetail’s Offer-Order-Settle-Deliver (OOSD) suite, specifically the Product Catalogue and Stock Keeper modules. The iRetail platform, developed in collaboration with AWS as part of a Strategic Collaboration Agreement announced in 2025, is built on an AI-first, cloud-native architecture. This advanced platform allows airlines to deliver innovative, experience-oriented products, moving beyond typical ancillary services like seat selections or extra baggage.

Christophe Roux, Senior Vice President and Head of Aviation Passenger Solutions at IBS Software, remarked on the partnership, stating, "Air New Zealand has consistently led the market on innovation, and working with them on Skynest was a natural fit to show what IBS Software's retailing platform is truly capable of." He added that Skynest is indicative of how iRetail empowers airlines to introduce new products that legacy systems could not support.

This deployment of Skynest is part of the ongoing collaboration between Air New Zealand and IBS Software, which also encompasses cargo management through iCargo and loyalty management with iLoyal. The introduction of Skynest further illustrates both companies' commitment to enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency.