These retrofits, which will be performed on all 14 of Air New Zealand’s existing 787-9s, will not add the new Skynest economy sleeping pods; these will instead feature on its eight new Dreamliners expected to arrive from next year.

The 137-seater A220s are gradually replacing QantasLink’s ageing Boeing 717 fleet, and offer a greater range and better fuel efficiency as well as cabin improvements including larger windows, more overhead locker space, and more comfortable economy seating compared to the older model.

The two-year trial scheme will allegedly provide a $1,000 payment to any ADF member, including those in the RAAF, who helps ease current recruitment issues by recruiting additional personnel.

The news follows another difficult year for Boeing, which included a doorplug blowing out of a 737 MAX 9 in mid-air and the bodged return of its Starliner spacecraft.