Top 7 Airlines in Japan with the Best Safety & Service

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Flying domestic routes within Japan completely changed my expectations for air travel. While most of us have gotten used to cramped seats and mediocre service, Japanese carriers operate in a different universe of passenger care that makes even short flights actually enjoyable.

Japan remains one of my favorite countries to explore, with an incredible mix of ancient traditions and futuristic innovation. From the organized chaos of Tokyo with its dizzying array of neighborhoods and food options to the traditional architecture and temple gardens of Kyoto, the best places in Japan deserve an equally impressive journey between them. I analyzed over 25 reputable airlines in Japan, weighing their onboard amenities, pricing, comfort, and on-time performance. These 7 airlines consistently deliver exceptional safety standards and service that reminds you what flying was meant to be. Your domestic travel experience can be as memorable as the destinations themselves.

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1. 🇯🇵 Japan Airlines (JAL)

• 🏠 Hub: Tokyo Haneda (HND), Tokyo Narita (NRT), Osaka (ITM/KIX)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business (Sky Suite), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: JAL Mileage Bank, part of oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Sky Suite business class, award-winning cuisine, impeccable cleanliness, generous baggage allowance
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Select rear-facing window seats in business class for maximum privacy and better views during takeoff and landing

Japan Airlines doesn’t just meet safety standards, they help write them. JAL has maintained one of the industry’s best safety records for decades, with a corporate culture that prioritizes precision and preventative maintenance above all else.

Flying JAL means experiencing true Japanese hospitality before you even reach Japan. Their cabin crews undergo intensive training that blends traditional Japanese omotenashi service principles with modern efficiency. The result? Staff who anticipate your needs without being intrusive and solve problems before you even realize they exist. Their inflight service has won countless awards, with crews consistently rated among the most attentive and professional in any global survey.

The food genuinely impresses, even by international business class standards. JAL works with acclaimed Japanese chefs to create authentic washoku cuisine alongside Western options. Their signature Japanese meals feature seasonal ingredients and artful presentation that would look at home in upscale Tokyo restaurants. Even Economy passengers enjoy multi-course meals with quality ingredients, a step above what most airlines offer.

Their aircraft interiors showcase meticulous Japanese attention to detail, with spotless cabins and thoughtful amenities across all classes. Their latest Sky Suite business class offers exceptional privacy with direct aisle access for all seats, while their Premium Economy provides significantly more comfort than standard coach. 

For travelers who value safety, cleanliness, and genuine hospitality, JAL delivers a consistently excellent experience that perfectly represents Japanese precision and service excellence.

• Read next: Unique Airbnbs in Tokyo

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2. 🇯🇵 All Nippon Airways (ANA)

• 🏠 Hub: Tokyo Haneda (HND), Tokyo Narita (NRT), Osaka (ITM/KIX)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business (The Room), First (The Suite)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: ANA Mileage Club, part of Star Alliance
• ☕ Perks: “The Room” business class, kaiseki dining, meticulous service, impeccable cleanliness
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book their latest “The Room” business class on Boeing 777-300ER routes for what many consider the most spacious and comfortable business seats in the sky

All Nippon Airways takes safety so seriously you’ll probably feel safer in their planes than in your own car. These folks have one of the cleanest safety records in aviation, but they somehow manage to make obsessive attention to detail feel like a luxury rather than just a precaution.

Their newest Business Class model called “The Room” is ridiculously spacious. We’re talking about seats so wide you could practically do jumping jacks in them. Unlike those claustrophobic pods on some airlines, ANA gives you a sense of openness while still keeping things private. Even their Economy Class feels roomier than what you get on most carriers, with little touches like proper cushioning and footrests that make a real difference on long flights.

The food? Legitimately delicious, not just “good for airplane food.” Their kaiseki meals are like getting a high-end Japanese restaurant experience at 35,000 feet, with beautiful seasonal dishes that change regularly. They don’t just pour sake into plastic cups either, you get proper service with temperature-appropriate glassware and staff who actually know what they’re serving.

What really makes ANA special is how the crew seems to know what you need before you do. Need a refill? They notice your empty glass. Feeling cold? A blanket appears. It’s almost magical but never intrusive or stuffy. For a nation known for formal service, ANA staff bring a surprising amount of warmth and personality to their impeccable professionalism.

• Read next: Best Airlines for Flights to Japan

3. 🇯🇵 Skymark Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Tokyo Haneda (HND), Kobe (UKB), Fukuoka (FUK)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Class (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Skymark Smile Club
• ☕ Perks: Generous seat pitch, free seat selection, simple pricing, punctual operations
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book their Premium Class on the Tokyo to Sapporo route for wider seats and complimentary drinks at prices often lower than legacy carriers’ regular economy

Skymark Airlines shows that budget flying doesn’t have to mean uncomfortable compromises. As Japan’s largest independent airline, they’ve built a solid reputation for reliability and customer-friendly policies that many bigger airlines could learn from.

Safety comes first at Skymark, just like you’d expect from a Japanese carrier. Their fleet of Boeing 737s is modern and well-maintained, and their pilots are trained to the same rigorous standards as the major airlines. They’re impressively punctual too, like when Skymark says your flight leaves at 10:45, you can pretty much set your watch by it.

The seats are where Skymark really surprises most first-time passengers. They give you noticeably more legroom than what you get on JAL or ANA for domestic flights, and the seats have proper cushioning that your back will thank you for. Their planes have three seats on each side of the aisle, but somehow they’ve managed to make them wider than what you typically find on budget carriers.

The crew brings that distinctive Japanese combination of professionalism and warmth. They’re efficient without feeling rushed and attentive without hovering. While you’ll need to pay for food onboard, what they offer is actually decent, not the sad, overpriced sandwiches you might expect. For travelers exploring Japan without a premium budget, Skymark delivers remarkable value with a focus on the things that actually matter: safety, punctuality, comfort, and genuine service.

4. 🇯🇵 Peach Aviation

• 🏠 Hub: Osaka Kansai (KIX), Tokyo Narita (NRT), Okinawa (OKA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy (Standard, Fast Fare, Premium)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Peach Points
• ☕ Perks: Modern fleet, bilingual service, affordable fares, extensive domestic network
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Their “Premium” fare costs just a bit more than standard but includes advance seat selection, a checked bag, and priority boarding, often saving money compared to adding each option separately

Peach Aviation brings a splash of color to Japanese skies with their distinctive purple planes and youthful energy. Don’t let the fun branding fool you though as this subsidiary of ANA maintains impressive safety standards while making air travel more accessible throughout Japan.

The airline flies a young fleet of Airbus A320 family aircraft with clean, simple cabins designed for efficiency. The seats are surprisingly comfortable for a budget carrier, with leather upholstery and reasonable legroom. While you won’t find Business Class here, their Premium fare option gets you a better seat (usually in the front few rows), priority boarding, and checked baggage included.

What makes Peach stand out in Japan’s budget airline scene is their genuine commitment to customer service. Unlike some low-cost carriers that treat passengers as self-loading cargo, Peach’s crew members are refreshingly helpful and friendly. The service is consistently bilingual, making them a great choice for international visitors exploring beyond Tokyo. Their safety demonstrations often include subtle humor that keeps passengers actually paying attention.

Peach connects many secondary Japanese cities that would otherwise require time-consuming train journeys. Their extensive network covers everything from snowy Hokkaido to tropical Okinawa, with convenient schedules geared toward both business travelers and tourists. For exploring Japan affordably without sacrificing safety or basic comfort, Peach offers remarkable value with a bit of personality that makes flying fun again. Plus, their on-time performance would impress even the most punctuality-obsessed Japanese businessperson.

5. 🇯🇵 Jetstar Japan

• 🏠 Hub: Tokyo Narita (NRT), Osaka Kansai (KIX), Nagoya (NGO)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy (Starter, Plus, Max Bundle)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Qantas Points (optional)
• ☕ Perks: Ultra-low fares, modern Airbus fleet, international connections, self-transfer options
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book their “Plus Bundle” which includes a checked bag, seat selection, and date change flexibility for about 30% less than buying these add-ons separately

Jetstar Japan brings Australian-Japanese hybrid hospitality to budget travel with surprising attention to safety and service. This joint venture between Qantas and Japan Airlines combines value pricing with operational standards that exceed what you’d expect from a low-cost carrier.

The airline operates a young fleet of Airbus A320s with a simple but well-maintained cabin experience. While seat pitch is standard for budget carriers, their seats have better cushioning than many competitors, making those shorter domestic hops more comfortable. Their bundle options let you customize your experience without the sticker shock of à la carte pricing, with the Plus Bundle offering particularly good value for most travelers.

What sets Jetstar Japan apart from its competitors? Their perfect blend of Australian relaxed friendliness and Japanese efficiency. Cabin crews are consistently bilingual and bring a warmer, less formal approach than traditional Japanese carriers while maintaining high service standards. Safety procedures are never compromised despite the budget positioning, with maintenance and training protocols that benefit from both Qantas and JAL oversight.

The route network focuses on connecting major Japanese cities with popular tourist destinations, making them ideal for visitors exploring beyond the typical Tokyo-Kyoto corridor. Their international connections with parent Jetstar’s wider network create convenient self-transfer options throughout Asia. For budget-conscious travelers seeking reliable transportation around Japan with just enough comfort to keep the experience pleasant, Jetstar Japan delivers consistent quality with rates that leave more yen in your pocket for actually enjoying your destination.

6. 🇯🇵 Solaseed Air

• 🏠 Hub: Tokyo Haneda (HND), Miyazaki (KMI)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Class (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Solaseed Smile Club
• ☕ Perks: Complimentary drinks, above-average legroom, friendly service, spotless cabins
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book their unique “Tabiwari” discount fares available 28 days before departure for savings of up to 50% off regular prices on routes to southern Japan

Solaseed Air might not be as famous internationally as Japan’s bigger carriers, but it is a hidden gem when it comes to flying around Japan. Based out of Miyazaki, with a major presence at Tokyo Haneda, Solaseed focuses mainly on connecting Tokyo with southern Japan, including destinations across Kyushu and Okinawa.

The airline operates a fleet of all Boeing 737-800 aircraft, known for their clean cabins, reliable performance, and cheerful branding. Seats are comfortable by domestic flight standards, and the crews are known for being especially warm and attentive. It is the kind of airline where small touches matter, like complimentary green tea or coffee and little gestures from the cabin crew that make the flight feel more personal.

Safety is a clear priority for Solaseed Air. Their operations and maintenance practices meet Japan’s famously high aviation standards, and the airline has maintained an excellent safety record since launching in 2002. Flights generally run on time, and ground staff are quick to offer guidance and help with tight connections.

Their Solaseed Smile Club loyalty program is simple but rewarding for frequent flyers within Japan. While Solaseed mainly serves domestic routes, it is an excellent option if you are heading to less touristy parts of Japan and want the kind of friendly, attentive service that leaves a good impression before you even leave the airport.

7. 🇯🇵 Air Do

• 🏠 Hub: Tokyo Haneda (HND), Sapporo New Chitose (CTS)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Class (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Do Miles
• ☕ Perks: Hokkaido-themed service, regional snacks, larger seats, friendly crews
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book their “Value” fares at least 28 days in advance to save up to 50% on flights to Hokkaido while still getting a free checked bag

Air Do brings Hokkaido’s natural charm to the skies as the pride of Japan’s northernmost island. This regional carrier has won the hearts of both locals and visitors with their genuine hospitality and commitment to representing Hokkaido culture.

Their Boeing 737s and 767s feature cabins with a Hokkaido-inspired color scheme and surprisingly spacious seating. The planes might not be brand new, but they’re meticulously maintained with cleanliness standards that only Japanese airlines seem able to achieve. Their Premium Class offers extra legroom and enhanced service at prices that make regular business travelers smile.

What really makes Air Do special is how they showcase Hokkaido’s famous food culture. They serve complimentary snacks featuring local specialties like Hokkaido milk cookies and regional rice crackers. Their seasonal in-flight menu includes items made with Hokkaido dairy, seafood, and produce that you can purchase onboard. Even their coffee comes from local Hokkaido roasters.

My AIRDO, their loyalty program, is straightforward and best suited for frequent travelers between Hokkaido and Tokyo. Although Air Do mainly handles domestic routes, their quality of service often feels closer to what you would expect on a bigger international flight. It is a great pick if you are heading north and want a calm, friendly flying experience along the way.

For travelers looking to experience Japan’s beautiful north without breaking the bank, Air Do delivers reliable service with authentic Hokkaido character that larger airlines simply can’t match.

Other airlines in Japan to consider

In addition to the airlines above, here are some other top-rated Japanese airlines that you should consider flying with.

1. Vanilla Air: a low-cost carrier based in Tokyo, Japan. It operates flights to several domestic and international destinations across Asia, and offers a no-frills travel experience with a focus on low fares.
2. Star Flyer: a regional airline based in Kitakyushu, Japan, serving domestic flights across Japan, known for its exceptional service quality, and offering a range of cabin classes.
3. Ibex Airlines: a regional airline based in Sendai, Japan, serving domestic flights across Japan, known for its exceptional service quality and safety record, and offering a range of cabin classes.
4. Fuji Dream Airlines: a regional airline based in Shizuoka, Japan, serving domestic flights across Japan, and known for its colorful aircraft livery.
5. Japan Transocean Air: a regional airline based in Okinawa, Japan, serving domestic flights across Japan, and known for its exceptional service quality and safety record.
6. AirAsia Japan: a low-cost carrier based in Nagoya, Japan, operating flights to several domestic and international destinations across Asia, and offering a no-frills travel experience.
7. Spring Airlines Japan: a low-cost carrier based in Tokyo, Japan, operating flights to several domestic and international destinations across Asia, and offering a range of optional add-ons, such as in-flight meals and baggage allowance.
8. Amakusa Airlines: a regional airline based in Kumamoto, Japan, serving domestic flights across Japan, and known for its personalized and friendly service.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about airlines of Japan

Here are some popular questions and answers about Japanese airlines in 2025.

What is the main airline in Japan?

Japan’s main airline is Japan Airlines (JAL). JAL is one of the largest and most recognized airlines in Asia, serving over 90 destinations in 20 countries worldwide. The airline has a fleet of over 160 aircraft, including both Boeing and Airbus models, and offers a range of services for passengers. This includes domestic and international flights, premium cabins, and frequent flyer programs.

JAL has a long and rich history, having been founded in 1951 as the country’s flag carrier airline. In recent years, JAL has been recognized for its exceptional service quality and customer satisfaction. This has cemented its position as the top airline in Japan.

How many airlines are in Japan?

There are currently over 30 airlines operating in Japan, ranging from large international carriers to smaller regional airlines. Some of the top airlines in Japan include Japan Airlines, ANA (All Nippon Airways), Skymark Airlines, and Peach Aviation.

Japan’s airline industry is highly competitive, with a strong focus on service quality and customer experience. This makes it one of the most dynamic and innovative flight markets in the world. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Japan’s airlines continue to adapt and innovate, offering new routes, services, and products to meet the evolving needs of travelers.

What is the biggest international airline in Japan?

The biggest international airline in Japan is Japan Airlines (JAL). JAL operates a vast global network, serving over 90 destinations in 20 countries worldwide. This includes major cities in Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania.

With a fleet of over 160 aircraft and a reputation for exceptional service quality, JAL is a leader in the Japanese airline industry. Therefore, it’s a popular choice for international travelers. JAL’s extensive codeshare agreements with other airlines, including partners in the oneworld alliance, further expand its reach and make it a convenient option for travelers connecting to destinations beyond Japan.

What are some Japanese airlines?

There are several Japanese airlines, ranging from large international carriers to smaller regional airlines. Some of the top airlines in Japan include:

1. Japan Airlines (JAL)
2. All Nippon Airways (ANA)
3. Skymark Airlines
4. Peach Aviation
5. Jetstar Japan
6. Solaseed Air
7. Air Do
8. Vanilla Air
9. Fuji Dream Airlines
10. StarFlyer

These airlines cover domestic routes as well as international destinations across Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania. Many of these airlines have earned reputations for exceptional service quality and innovative product offerings. This makes the Japanese airline industry one of the most dynamic and competitive markets in the world.

What is Japan budget airline?

There are several budget airlines operating in Japan, but one of the most well-known is Peach Aviation. Peach Aviation is a low-cost carrier based in Osaka, Japan, and is a subsidiary of ANA (All Nippon Airways). The airline was founded in 2011 and currently operates flights to over 20 domestic and international destinations across Asia. This includes Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Thailand, among others.

Peach Aviation offers a no-frills travel experience, with a focus on low fares and a range of optional add-ons. This includes in-flight meals, baggage allowance, and seat selection (among others). The airline has gained a reputation for its vibrant branding and innovative marketing campaigns. As such, this makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for a convenient and affordable way to explore Japan and the wider region.

What is the oldest Japanese airline?

The oldest Japanese airline is Japan Airlines (JAL). JAL was founded in 1951 as the country’s flag carrier airline. JAL has a long history, having played a significant role in Japan’s aviation industry and the country’s international relations.

The airline has faced numerous challenges over the years, including financial difficulties and safety incidents. However, it has persevered through innovation, restructuring, and a steadfast commitment to service quality. Today, JAL is recognized as one of the largest and most prestigious airlines in Asia. This is thanks to its global network of destinations, a modern fleet of aircraft, and a reputation for exceptional customer service.

What airlines are based in Tokyo?

Curious about the airlines of Japan that are based in the capital? Several airlines are based in Tokyo, including:

1. Japan Airlines (JAL)
2. All Nippon Airways (ANA)
3. Skymark Airlines
4. Jetstar Japan
5. Air Do
6. Solaseed Air

JAL and ANA are the two largest airlines in Japan and have their main hubs at Tokyo’s two major airports: Narita International Airport and Haneda Airport. These airlines operate a vast network of domestic and international flights, connecting Tokyo to major cities across the world. Skymark Airlines is a low-cost carrier based at Haneda Airport, offering domestic flights across Japan. Jetstar Japan is a joint venture between Japan Airlines and Qantas Airways, offering low-cost domestic and international flights. Air Do and Solaseed Air are both regional airlines based in Tokyo, serving destinations across Japan. With such a diverse range of airlines operating in Tokyo, travelers have a wide variety of options for exploring Japan and beyond.

Is ANA same as Japan Airlines?

No, ANA (All Nippon Airways) is not the same as Japan Airlines (JAL). Although both airlines are based in Japan and are members of the Star Alliance global airline network, they are separate companies with different histories, ownership structures, and business strategies.

ANA is the largest airline in Japan by passenger numbers and operates a vast domestic and international network. They provide flights to destinations across Asia, North America, and Europe. JAL is the second-largest airline in Japan and also operates a global network of destinations. It has a strong focus on Asia and North America.

While ANA and JAL are competitors in the Japanese airline market, they both have a strong reputation for service quality and safety. This makes them popular choices for travelers exploring Japan and the wider region.

Which one is better ANA or JAL?

Both ANA (All Nippon Airways) and JAL (Japan Airlines) are highly regarded airlines with a reputation for exceptional service quality and safety. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preferences. This includes factors like route network, price, loyalty program benefits, and in-flight services.

In terms of recent awards and accolades, ANA has been recognized as the “World’s Best Airline” by Skytrax in 2018. JAL, on the other hand, was named “Japan’s Leading Airline” by the World Travel Awards in 2020. Both airlines have also received recognition for their cleanliness and safety measures during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ultimately, travelers can expect a high-quality experience with either ANA or JAL. This really makes it a matter of personal preference and convenience when deciding which airline to fly with.

Is Japan Airlines a 5 star Airline?

Yes, Japan Airlines (JAL) has been recognized as a 5-star airline by the independent airline rating organization, Skytrax. JAL earned the prestigious rating for its exceptional in-flight product and service quality, which includes comfortable seating, a wide range of dining options, and attentive cabin crew.

The airline has also been recognized for its safety record, innovation, and sustainability initiatives. Skytrax uses a comprehensive evaluation system to rate airlines. It’s based on factors such as customer experience, on-time performance, safety, and innovation. Achieving a 5-star rating is considered the highest level of recognition in the industry. As such, JAL’s achievement of this rating underscores its position as one of the leading airlines in the world.

Which airport is better in Tokyo?

To determine which airport is better in Tokyo, Narita International Airport or Haneda Airport, you have to consider several factors. This includes location, flight availability, and personal preferences.

Narita International Airport is located further from the city center. However, it offers a wider range of international flights and connections to other parts of Japan.

On the other hand, Haneda Airport is closer to the city center. It’s also more convenient for domestic flights and shorter international flights. Haneda Airport is also known for its modern facilities and efficient transportation options. This includes having a direct rail link to Tokyo Station.

Overall, both airports are modern and well-equipped, with a wide range of amenities and services to cater to travelers’ needs.