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Air New Zealand has transformed a Tasman crossing into a live concert venue, delivering the first-ever SYNTHONY in the Sky experience onboard NZ1331 and turning the cabin into a high-altitude celebration of music and creativity.
The sold-out flight departed on Thursday, December 4, bringing together a cabin full of fans and a line-up of performers for what the airline describes as a world-first inflight entertainment event.
The partnership with Duco Events’ SYNTHONY builds on a shared ambition to showcase New Zealand creativity on the global stage. Originally conceived as a local stage show, SYNTHONY has evolved into an international touring experience, with the inflight performance marking a milestone moment for the brand.
A full concert in the clouds
The inflight line-up delivered a full SYNTHONY set, featuring performances by Shapeshifter’s P Digsss, electronic artist DJ Dick Johnson, and vocalist Emily Williams. A surprise appearance by instrumentalists Lewis McCallum and Matthew Ottignon added live orchestral elements, with saxophone, flute and clarinet filling the cabin.
The technical setup required extensive testing and the use of transmission technology that Air New Zealand says is a world first for inflight entertainment.
A proud moment for the partnership
Air New Zealand chief customer and digital officer Jeremy O’Brien says the event exceeded expectations.
“This flight showcased the power of connection. It brought together Kiwi artistry, a fiercely proud homegrown concept, and an audience who were ready for something unforgettable. The flight experience sold out in just six hours, showing how much our customers value these once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
“We are proud to support SYNTHONY as it takes Aotearoa’s creativity to the world, and the flight’s energy showed just how strongly people respond when travel offers something truly new.”
Duco Events chief executive Craig Cotton says the inflight show was a defining moment.
“Seeing SYNTHONY take flight, literally, was a defining moment for our journey. Air New Zealand didn’t just transport our audience, they elevated the entire experience. This partnership proves what’s possible when two brands back creativity, innovation, and Kiwi talent.”
A full circle moment at 30,000 feet
SYNTHONY co-founder and Air New Zealand pilot Captain David Elmsly says seeing the concept realised in the air was extraordinary.
“When we first created SYNTHONY, I never imagined we’d one day bring it into the air. To see it come alive mid flight, with customers dancing, smiling and soaking up every moment, was incredibly special. It’s a true full circle moment for me and a celebration of what can happen when creativity and aviation come together.”
After landing, customers continued their celebration at SYNTHONY at the Symphony at the Sydney Opera House forecourt, marking a memorable end to a one-off, high-energy experience spanning both air and ground.
