transpacific · 13h 00m · 10,500 km

Los Angeles to Auckland

2 airlines · 2 aircraft ranked

In business class, Air NZ's Business Premier (787-9) leads the field with a 7.4/10.In premium economy, Air NZ's Premium Economy (787-9) dominates the field with a 6.6/10.

How we score → Last updated June 2026

Quick pick

Best business class:strong pick

Fly Air NZ. It has a wider seat (22" vs 21") and free Wi-Fi (paid on American).

If fares are comparable, this is the better cabin.

Best premium economy:clear winner

Fly Air NZ. It has 3 more inches of legroom and free Wi-Fi (paid on American).

A noticeably better product that justifies the pick.

Best economy:strong pick

Fly Air NZ. It scores higher across seat comfort and amenities.

If prices are similar, go with this one.

Sort by
Tap any two to compare head-to-head
1
Business PremierAir NZ · Boeing 787-9 · 2024 cabinBest on route
Lie-flat · 1-1-1 · 42" pitchVery reliable
Full power outlets + Longer bed + Free Wi-Fi
7.4
Very good
Seat 7.2·Amenity 7.8
2
Flagship BusinessAmerican · Boeing 777-200ER · 2015 cabin
Lie-flat · 1-2-1 · 75" pitch · Paid Wi-FiAvg. reliabilityPoints: Citi TYP
5.9
Average
Seat 5.9·Amenity 6.0

Select two airlines to compare head-to-head

Data verified June 2026

Find your flight

New routes and airlines added regularly. One short email when we do.

Airlines on this route

Route insights

  • In business class, Air NZ's Business Premier (787-9) leads the field with a 7.4/10.
  • In premium economy, Air NZ's Premium Economy (787-9) dominates the field with a 6.6/10.
  • In economy, Air NZ's Economy (787-9) leads the field with a 4.3/10.

Frequently asked

Which is better in business: Air NZ or American on LAX-AKL?

Business Premier (Air New Zealand, 787-9) beats Flagship Business (American Airlines, 777-200ER) in business, scoring 7.4/10 vs 5.9. The deciding factor: AC + USB-C vs no power. American Airlines fights back on entertainment.

Which is better in premium economy: Air NZ or American on LAX-AKL?

Premium Economy (Air New Zealand, 787-9) dominates Premium Economy (American Airlines, 777-200ER) in premium economy, scoring 6.6/10 vs 4.5. The deciding factor: AC + USB-C vs no power. American Airlines fights back on extras.

Which is better in economy: Air NZ or American on LAX-AKL?

Economy (Air New Zealand, 787-9) edges out Economy (American Airlines, 777-200ER) in economy, scoring 4.3/10 vs 3.6. The deciding factor: complimentary meals vs buy on board.

What are the best seats in American Flagship Business on LAX-AKL?

Best: True window seats in odd rows for best privacy. Avoid: Even-row window seats face the aisle. Concept D herringbone — direct aisle access but no door. Pre-retrofit; Flagship Suite upgrade scheduled 2027+. 18-inch IFE is larger than 787 variant.

What are the best seats in American Premium Economy on LAX-AKL?

Best: Window pairs for 2-across privacy. Avoid: Inner center seats. 2-4-2 layout. 12-inch IFE. Enhanced meals with alcohol.

What are the best seats in American Economy on LAX-AKL?

Best: Main Cabin Extra rows for extra pitch. Avoid: Last rows near lavatories. 3-4-3 economy. 10.6-inch IFE. Main Cabin Extra available for additional legroom.