Just visited Air New Zealand’s Hanger 9 to see how their new planes will look inside towards the end of this year.

First, the product is astounding and will change the way we think about airline travel. Their business class is already the best. But premium economy is brilliant – I love how they have though through how two people travelling together can have a great experience while those looking to be left along will enjoy it as well.

The breakthrough is the really cool “cuddle class” seating in economy. This is brilliant. I’ll be using it for our next family trip home.

Next, the whole experience in Hanger 9 is really cool. You get to walk through the entire design experience and their thinking – something they have every right to be proud of. Hanger 9 gives you real sense of how they focused on the entire customer experience. For instance, no matter what class you are in, you get to order the food you want, when you want it, and have it delivered. You’ll be able to plug your iPod or Dell Mini in and watch your movies on the big screen in front of you. And they are upgrading the best media system in the air to be even better, on even bigger screens.

All in all, a really inspiring experience and great example of a company focusing 100% on its customers.