ANA First Class Review in 2025: All Nippon Airways Like a VIP

Jon Miksis Jon Miksis clock Updated August 10, 2025 tourism Travel Tips
by Jon Miksis
ANA first class Featured Image
This post may have affiliate links, where I may receive a commission if you purchase through them. Here's our Disclosure and Privacy Policy for more info.

I’ve personally flown ANA First Class multiple times in the past 7 years. As a full-time travel blogger who’s reviewed more than 25 premium cabins worldwide, I can say ANA offers a rare mix of privacy, precision, and Japanese omotenashi (hospitality) that few airlines can match. This guide is based on my firsthand experiences, conversations with ANA cabin crew and ground staff, and cross-comparisons with other first-class products to help you decide if it’s worth the splurge. Let’s kick off this adventure and find out why I believe ANA is one of the best airlines in the world.

ANA First Class at a Glance in 2025

After flying ANA First Class multiple times, here are my top takeaways and insider tips you can use right now to make the most of this incredible experience:

  • Book smarter, not harder. My biggest score was JFK–Tokyo in The Suite for 110,000 Virgin Atlantic points + $347 in taxes during a 30% Amex transfer bonus. Set fare alerts for multiple U.S. cities and be ready to pounce.
  • Choose your throne. n the 777-300ER Suite, solo travelers should grab a window; couples will love the center pair with the movable partition.
  • Dine like royalty – Don’t skip the Japanese kaiseki menu. Seasonal dishes (like sakura-themed courses in spring) pair beautifully with Krug champagne and Oscietra caviar.
  • Sleep like you mean it. The Nishikawa mattress pad and premium bedding make the fully flat bed genuinely comfortable for 8+ hours of real sleep.
  • Arrive early for the lounge – The ANA Suite Lounge at Haneda is worth lingering for. I always start with the noodle bar, then grab a seat by the window with a matcha before boarding.
  • Pack without stress. Three checked bags at 70 lbs each means you can bring home all the sake and souvenirs you want.
  • Privacy on another level. Sliding doors in The Suite give you that “private jet” feel, even in a cabin with other passengers.
  • Service with soul. ANA’s crew excel at thoughtful touches, like the time a flight attendant brought me a hand-drawn Kyoto tea shop map after spotting my guidebook.

Bottom line: ANA First Class blends meticulous Japanese hospitality with hard-product luxury in a way few airlines match. If you can snag it for points or a mistake fare, it’s one of the best ways to cross the Pacific.

Recent upgrades with ANA First Class

In 2025, ANA has further cemented its First Class reputation with notable upgrades. “The Suite” on the Boeing 777-300ER now operates on all New York (JFK) and London (LHR) flights, plus select frequencies to Chicago (ORD) and San Francisco (SFO), though it’s still wise to check the seat map for aircraft swaps.

Onboard, passengers can now enjoy MY SKY CHANNEL, a new app feature that lets you preview the in-flight entertainment lineup before boarding, save favorites, and even control the seat monitor from your phone. Dining continues to shine under ANA’s The Connoisseurs program, which partners Michelin-level chefs and beverage experts to craft seasonal menus, from sakura-inspired spring courses to premium wagyu and Oscietra caviar pairings.

For frequent flyers, ANA’s updated award mileage charts (effective June 24, 2025) mean it’s more important than ever to check redemption rates before booking. Even as ANA prepares to roll out its next-generation “THE Room FX” business-class seat in 2026, First Class remains the pinnacle…combining meticulous Japanese omotenashi with cutting-edge comfort and service.

My #1 tip to find cheap first class tickets with ANA

Over the past year, I’ve tracked over 100 ANA First Class fares through multiple tools, and my biggest savings ($8,450 off retail) came through Going.com’s Elite alerts. I cross-check these alerts with Google Flights and ExpertFlyer to verify availability and avoid phantom inventory. The trick? Set alerts for multiple U.S. departure cities (like SFO, LAX, JFK) and be ready to book within hours when deals hit. For example, in February 2025 I saw a roundtrip JFK–HND in The Suite for just 110,000 Virgin Atlantic points + $347 in taxes, thanks to a 30% Amex transfer bonus.

Before you book anything, don’t miss these deals 👇

I highly recommend signing up for the free version of Going, which sends you alerts on airline deals, discounts, and mistake fares. It’s a total game-changer, saving me $10,000+ on flights each year. And if you plan to level up to Premium or Elite, use my special discount code JON25 to save 25%!

Overview of ANA first class

ANA (All Nippon Airways) is way more than just a 5-star Skytrax airline. It’s Japan’s largest airline, with a 72-year history of connecting travelers to 92 destinations. In 2025, they’ve continued upgrading their long-haul fleet, with “The Suite” now available on all JFK, LHR, and most FRA flights. Their dual hubs — Haneda (HND) for quick downtown Tokyo access and Narita (NRT) for long-haul connectivity — make them ideal for both business and leisure travelers.

Internationally, ANA serves the following destinations:

  • North America: New York (JFK), Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Honolulu (HNL), Seattle (SEA), Houston (IAH), Washington D.C. (IAD), Vancouver (YVR)
  • Europe: London (LHR), Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC), Paris (CDG), Brussels (BRU), Vienna (VIE)
  • Asia: Bangkok (BKK), Singapore (SIN), Jakarta (CGK), Hong Kong (HKG), Taipei (TPE), Seoul (ICN), Manila (MNL), Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), Kuala Lumpur (KUL), Shanghai (PVG), Beijing (PEK)
  • Oceania: Sydney (SYD), Perth (PER)

Domestically in Japan, ANA connects Tokyo and Osaka to dozens of cities including Sapporo, Fukuoka, Nagoya, and Okinawa (one of my favorite blue zones).

ANA First Class flight for all types of travelers.

ANA first class benefits in 2025

From the moment I handed my passport to the First Class check-in agent at Haneda, I knew I was in for something special. She not only printed my boarding pass but also personally escorted me to the dedicated security lane…something I’ve never experienced on any U.S. carrier. I’ve flown ANA First Class on both the Boeing 777-300ER “The Suite” and the Airbus A380 Flying Honu in the past year. And each time I step onboard, I’m reminded why this product is in a league of its own.

1. Unmatched Privacy & Space: On “The Suite,” my seat felt more like a private room than an airplane cabin. The sliding doors, 38-inch-wide seat, and fully flat bed over 78 inches long made it easy to switch between work mode and sleep mode.

2. World-Class Dining: I always look forward to choosing between the Japanese kaiseki menu and the Western fine dining menu. In spring 2025, the sakura-themed courses were as beautiful as they were delicious, while my winter flight featured melt-in-your-mouth Japanese wagyu. The caviar course came on a silver tray with mother-of-pearl spoons…a small but classy touch. I once paired it with a glass of Krug Grande Cuvée while watching the sunrise over the Pacific.

3. Luxury Amenities: The Nishikawa mattress pad added a cushiony layer that made the bed feel closer to my mattress at home than any airline seat I’ve tried. The Globe-Trotter amenity kit on my last flight came stocked with The Ginza skincare products. Perfect for keeping my skin hydrated on a 12-hour journey. I’ve clocked ANA’s complimentary full-flight Wi-Fi at up to 10 Mbps, which was fast enough to send videos back home mid-flight.

✈️ Pro Travel Tip:

I use Going.com to find crazy flight deals...($300 roundtrip to Europe kind of crazy).

It’s free, and I honestly check it more than Google Flights. For a limited time only, they are offering 25% off on Premium and Elite to readers of my website, using my special code: JON25)

👉 Get Free Flight Alerts 🔔

4. Personalized Service: With such a low passenger-to-crew ratio, the attention feels almost one-on-one. On one flight, a flight attendant noticed I was reading a book about Kyoto and brought me a hand-drawn map with her favorite local tea houses.

5. Premium Ground Experience: Walking into the ANA Suite Lounge at Haneda after a dedicated First Class check-in is one of my favorite pre-flight rituals. I usually start with their signature ramen from the noodle bar. The last time I flew out of HND, it took me less than 3 minutes to get from the curb through security and into the lounge. An absolute dream compared to most international departures.

6. Generous Baggage Allowance: Three checked bags at 32 kg (70 lbs) each, plus two carry-ons, means I never have to stress about bringing home extra souvenirs…or a few bottles of sake.

From the moment I check in to the moment I land, ANA First Class feels less like a flight and more like a curated experience. Every detail from the seat design to the tea selection is absolutely incredible.

ANA first class products: A detailed comparison

I’ve had the joy of experiencing ANA’s offerings across different aircraft. There are some key differences depending on your route and aircraft type. Here’s what you need to know.

Boeing 777-300ER (The Suite)

On my JFK–Haneda flight in The Suite, I could keep the sliding doors closed from pushback to descent without a single interruption, except for meal service. That level of privacy doesn’t happen on Singapore or Qatar, even in their newest suites. If you’re flying solo, snag a window seat for some stunning views and maximum privacy. Couples might prefer the middle seats for easy chit-chat. To check if you’re flying the new version, check the business class layout. If it stretches to row 20, you’re in for the new suite experience.

Boeing 777-300ER (Old Version)

The classic version, while not as flashy, has its charm. The absence of doors does mean a tad less privacy, but every seat still has aisle access. ANA is in the process of updating its 777-300ER fleet to the new Suite product.

Airbus A380

Flying to or from Honolulu? You’re likely on the A380. The First Class section here mimics the new suite’s vibe but feels even more exclusive. Located on the upper deck, seats are arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration. I’d recommend choosing seat 1A, right at the front of the aircraft.

These are the only aircraft in ANA’s fleet to feature a first-class cabin. Whichever you fly, a luxurious experience is guaranteed. If you’re looking at flying first class to Japan, these tips should help make your flight unforgettable.

I've enjoyed taking advantage of the airline's services on a variety of aircraft.
Image Credit: One Mile at a Time

Best ANA First Class Routes in 2025

Over the years, I’ve found that not all ANA First Class flights are created equal. Some routes almost always get The Suite, while others have more mixed aircraft assignments. A few have better award space or lower surcharges, and some are just more scenic. Here’s my breakdown of the best options in 2025 based on my own flights and award searches.

RouteAircraft & ProductWhy It’s a Great PickMy Personal Tip
JFK–HND777-300ER “The Suite” (daily)Flagship route with consistent product, great service flow, and premium dining.Book an eastbound overnight for maximum rest; westbound daytime lets you enjoy the meals and service longer.
SFO–HND777-300ER “The Suite” (most flights)Good award availability, especially for last-minute bookings.Position to SFO if needed — I’ve scored 55k Virgin redemptions here when other routes were sold out.
ORD–HND777-300ER “The Suite” on select daysCentrally located for U.S. travelers, often less competition for awards than JFK/LAX.Check the seat map before booking — some rotations still use the older 777.
HNL–NRTAirbus A380 Flying HonuUnique double-deck layout, extra exclusivity on the upper deck.Pair it with a Hawaii vacation; award space is often easier to find.
LHR–HND777-300ER “The Suite”Premium European gateway with superb catering and wine list.Surcharges are higher ex-UK, so consider booking as an inbound only to avoid hefty fees.

On my last JFK–HND run, I had the sliding doors shut for nearly the whole flight and still managed a solid 7.5 hours of sleep. Meanwhile, my SFO–HND trip was a last-minute booking I grabbed just 10 days out, proving that ANA sometimes releases unsold First Class seats close to departure.

ANA first class ground experience

Kicking off an ANA first-class adventure starts on the ground. First off, their baggage allowance is generous. Packing light isn’t in my vocabulary, so the generous three-bag allowance (each up to 70 pounds) is a lifesaver.

ANA offers amazing lounge access at both Narita and Haneda airports (Tokyo), as well as Osaka and Honolulu. In the Suite Lounge at Haneda, I took over a window seat overlooking the 777s being loaded. The noodle bar had three ramen options (I went for the shoyu) and they handed me a buzzer so I could return to my seat instead of waiting around. You’ll find personalized service, shower suites to freshen up, and workstations if you need to catch up on emails. My favorite aspect of the lounge is the airline’s famous noodle bar, alongside a variety of buffet options. Unlike the Qantas First Lounge or Qatar’s Al Safwa, you won’t get full plated meals here. So, if you want something more than noodles and buffet fare, eat in Tokyo before you arrive.

For international flights departing from other locations, ANA ensures you have access to Star Alliance or partner airline lounges. At every airport it serves, ANA provides dedicated First Class check-in counters. You’ll find a special ANA Suite check-in at Tokyo Narita.

The first step in this airline's first-class journey begins on the ground.
The first step in this airline’s first-class journey begins on the ground. | Image Credit: One Mile at a Time

In-flight comfort & amenities on ANA first class

When I fly ANA First Class, the first thing I notice is the difference between the newer “The Suite” and the older product…and it’s more than just looks.

On The Suite, there are only 8 seats total, and when the sliding door clicks shut, the rest of the cabin disappears. I’ve had entire flights where I barely saw another passenger. The seat itself is huge — 38 inches wide — and the 43-inch 4K monitor is the sharpest screen I’ve seen on any airline. If you’re in the middle section, the movable partition is great for couples, but if you’re traveling solo, request a window so you can keep both privacy and a view.

The older First Class seats don’t have doors, but they still give you direct aisle access and plenty of personal space. The open layout actually makes it easier to chat with the crew, which I enjoy on daytime flights. Within minutes of boarding, the crew has your suite set up with a Globe-Trotter amenity kit (mine had The Ginza skincare), noise-canceling headphones, slippers, and a set of ANA pajamas — which I always change into right after takeoff to keep my clothes fresh for landing. They also bring around a basket of extras — eye masks, facial mists, and even hair ties — so I recommend checking it early before popular items run out.

One underrated perk is full-flight Wi-Fi, included for every First Class passenger. I’ve clocked it at around 8–10 Mbps, which is enough to send video clips or join a Zoom call without dropouts. Whether you’re in The Suite or the older cabin, ANA nails the little details that make a 12-hour flight feel like half that. This makes ANA one of the best airlines in Asia.

Food & drink in ANA first class

In ANA first class, the dining experience is top-notch. You can choose from a Western or a Japanese menu, the latter being a highlight if you enjoy seafood. Dining at 35,000 feet, especially with the Japanese set meal, is an experience in itself. ANA’s first class meals also feature a caviar course, a luxurious touch not to be missed.

For drinks, passengers are treated to premium options like Krug Grande Cuvee Champagne and Billecart Salmon from the start. Throughout the flight, there’s a wide selection of wine, sake, and spirits such as Johnnie Walker Blue Label and Suntory Whisky Hibiki. You’ll also find a variety of non-alcoholic choices including Japanese teas, coffees, juices, and soft drinks.

When flying with this airline, the food is great.
When flying with this airline, the food is great. | Image Credit: One Mile at a Time

Tips for booking ANA first class tickets

If you’re looking for cheap first class flights to ANA, I’ve got some tips on how to make that dream flight a reality.

  • Use Virgin Atlantic for one-way redemptions: Through Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, you can book ANA First Class from the U.S. to Japan for as low as 55,000–60,000 miles one-way (West Coast) or 60,000–72,500 miles (East Coast). The sweet spot is when Amex, Chase, Citi, or Capital One run a 30% transfer bonus. This drops the real cost to around 46,000–56,000 credit card points. The catch? You can only book roundtrips on ANA’s own Mileage Club, but Virgin allows one-way redemptions. I’ve used this to book JFK–HND, then returned on a different airline for variety.
  • Track award space like a hawk: ANA opens award space about 355 days in advance for its own members, and around 330 days for partners like Virgin. If you miss that initial window, check again 14–21 days before departure. ANA often releases unsold First Class seats then. Tools like ExpertFlyer can send you alerts the second space opens.
  • Subscribe to Cheap Flight Alerts: For deals on business class airfare, I highly recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (Going.com). While the free version is great for finding discounted economy flights, the Elite version will show you cheap business and first class deals.
  • Keep an eye on promotions: To book ANA first class with points, watch out for transfer bonuses from credit cards to airline programs like Virgin Atlantic. For example, transferring points during a 30% bonus period means you get more miles for the same number of credit card points.
  • Know when cash is better than points: I’ve seen ANA First Class mistake fares under $4,000 roundtrip from the West Coast to Tokyo. If you value your points at 1.5¢ each, sometimes paying cash (especially during a transfer bonus promo) is the smarter play.

ANA first class vs. rival products

Having flown ANA First Class multiple times, I’ve also tried the best of other first class airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines. They all offer incredible experiences, but they excel in different areas. Here’s how I see ANA stacking up after logging hours in each.

Airline & ProductPrivacyDiningUnique PerksMy Take
ANA – The SuiteSliding doors, 38-inch-wide seat; only 8 seats in cabin.Superb Japanese kaiseki and Western menus; ability to mix and match dishes.Japanese omotenashi service; generous baggage allowance; free full-flight Wi-Fi.My go-to for solo travel or when I want a restful flight.
Emirates – A380 First ClassFully enclosed suite; large cabin.High-quality international menu, but less regional focus.Onboard shower spa; iconic A380 bar.Amazing for novelty factor, but I end up walking around more than resting.
Qatar Airways – First Class (A380)Open suite, less private than ANA/Emirates.Arabic mezze standout; otherwise solid but not as refined as ANA.Al Safwa First Lounge in Doha is one of the best on the ground.Perfect for long connections in Doha, but in the air I miss the privacy of ANA.
Singapore Airlines – Suites ClassFully enclosed suite; double bed option for couples.‘Book the Cook’ pre-order service and consistently excellent plating.Exceptional wine list; spacious double bed for two.Best for couples or those who prioritize dining above all else.

If I’m traveling solo and want maximum rest, ANA still wins for me. The combination of privacy, service, and thoughtful touches (like the flight attendant’s hand-drawn Kyoto tea map) makes it feel less like a flight and more like a personal retreat in the sky.

This airline can compete with some top names in luxury travel when it comes to first class flights.
This airline can compete with some top names in luxury travel when it comes to first class flights. | Image Credit: One Mile at a Time

Pros & cons of ANA first class

I’ve flown ANA First Class multiple times over the last few years, both in The Suite and the older product, and here’s my honest take on what stands out…and where it falls short.

Pros

  • Seat comfort & sleep quality: The seat in The Suite is 38 inches wide and over 78 inches long when fully flat…wider than a twin bed. On my overnight JFK–Haneda, I added the Nishikawa mattress pad, kept the cabin temp at 22°C (the crew happily adjusted it for me), and slept 7.5 hours straight. This is something I’ve never managed on Emirates or Cathay.
  • Lounge experience at Tokyo: The ANA Suite Lounge at Haneda is functional luxury – not showy, but efficient. I’m in and out of security in under 5 minutes thanks to the dedicated First Class lane. My pre-boarding ritual: order shoyu ramen from the noodle bar, grab a corner window seat, and watch ground crews load the 777.
  • Dining quality & variety: Both Japanese and Western menus are excellent, but the kaiseki course is where ANA shines. On one spring flight, my sakura jelly dessert literally smelled like cherry blossoms. Pro tip: the crew will happily serve elements from both menus. I once had wagyu from the Western side and miso soup from the Japanese menu.
  • Privacy: In The Suite, sliding doors completely block line-of-sight. On one daytime flight from Chicago, I worked on a presentation for four hours without a single passenger or crew member walking past in view.
  • Generous baggage policy: Three checked bags at 32 kg (70 lbs) each means I’ve flown home from Japan with sake bottles, ceramics, and winter coats without ever hitting a fee.
  • Service consistency: ANA service is polished without being scripted. On my last flight, a flight attendant noticed me flipping through a Kyoto guidebook and returned with a hand-drawn tea shop map – that’s ANA.

Cons

  • Price: Paid fares often hover between $12,000–$18,000 roundtrip U.S.–Japan. Even with points, surcharges can push cash outlay to $300–$450 per ticket.
  • No onboard shower: If you’re chasing the spa-in-the-sky experience of Emirates, you won’t find it here. I usually freshen up in the lounge before boarding.
  • Product inconsistency: Routes with the older 777 seats lack doors and the 43-inch monitor. Privacy is still good, but after experiencing The Suite, it’s hard to go back. Check the seat map before you book. If business class runs past row 20, it’s the new configuration.
  • Surcharges on awards: Virgin Atlantic bookings add $300–$400 in taxes/fees, mainly fuel surcharges. Not a dealbreaker, but worth factoring in when comparing partner programs.
You can tell you're going to get a restful night's sleep as soon as you settle into their First Class seat.
You can tell you’re going to get a restful night’s sleep as soon as you settle into their First Class seat. | Image Credit: One Mile at a Time

FAQs about ANA first class

Here are some popular questions I often get about flying first class with ANA.

How far in advance should I book ANA First Class with points?

If you are booking through ANA’s own Mileage Club, seats open about 355 days before departure. Partner programs like Virgin Atlantic usually see space around 330 days out. I’ve had the most success grabbing space right when the partner window opens. If you miss it, try again about 2 to 3 weeks before departure when ANA sometimes releases unsold seats.

Which U.S. routes have ANA’s “The Suite” First Class?

As of 2025, The Suite is on all flights from JFK and LHR, plus many from ORD and SFO. I always check the seat map before booking. If business class goes to row 20, it’s the new configuration. If it stops earlier, it is the older First Class product.

Is ANA First Class worth the points compared to Business Class?

Yes if you value privacy, premium dining, and the ground experience. On one ORD–HND trip, I slept over 7 hours straight in The Suite, something I rarely manage in Business Class. If you are a heavy sleeper who values more space and caviar service, it’s worth the premium.

It's like winning the lottery when it comes to flying when you book with this airline.
It’s like winning the lottery when it comes to flying when you book first class with this airline.

How do I know if my flight will have Japanese or Western meal options?

ANA offers both on almost all long-haul First Class routes. You can preview the exact menu about one month before departure on ANA’s website. I sometimes pre-order the Japanese menu so they don’t run out of the seasonal dishes.

What is in the ANA First Class amenity kit?

Recent flights have had Globe-Trotter kits stocked with The Ginza skincare. I use the facial mist mid-flight to keep my skin hydrated. There’s also an amenities basket with extras like eye masks and lip balm. Ask early, as the more popular items go fast.

What’s the best seat for solo travelers in The Suite?

I always pick a window seat on the left side (A seats) because the galley noise is slightly lower there and you get better sunrise views on eastbound flights from Japan.

What’s one thing most people don’t know about ANA First Class?

You can request cabin temperature adjustments. On an overnight flight from Tokyo, I asked the crew to lower the temp by two degrees and it made sleeping much more comfortable.

ANA First Class to try right now.
Enjoyed reading about the Guide to ANA First Class? Pin it!
Jon Miksis

About Jon Miksis

Award-winning Travel Writer • Founder of Global Viewpoint • 70+ countries visited • 10 Million+ readers

Since 2017, I’ve traveled 3–6 months a year, sharing detailed guides that have helped over 10 million readers travel smarter, deeper, and better. My work blends firsthand experiences — from U.S. road trips and cold-plunge cabins to Michelin-starred dining and business-class flights — with honest, independent reviews.

I’ve been hired by leading tourism boards in 7 countries across Europe, North America, and South America, as well as international travel brands. My travel tips and insights have been featured in Forbes, HuffPost, Yahoo Travel, and The Boston Globe. I’ve personally reviewed 500+ hotels, retreats, and flight experiences — and I never recommend a place I wouldn’t return to myself.

I also save $5–10K per year on airfare using flight tools and 10+ travel credit cards, and I’ve invested over $100K into personal development through transformational retreats and coaching since 2021.

When I’m not road-tripping across the Northeast or writing guides for Global Viewpoint, you’ll find me cold plunging in local lakes, sipping espresso in quiet cafes in Vienna, or chasing fall foliage across New England. I split my time between exploring the world and soaking up life in Boston, my lifelong home base. Some of my favorite places I keep going back to? Switzerland, Spain, Iceland, Italy, Greece, the Faroe Islands, Guatemala, California, Montana, Vermont, and coastal Maine in autumn.

See my latest adventures on Instagram and TikTok.

Read more | Editorial Policy | Press Page

Need help planning your trip? Check out these helpful links:

You may also like

Leave a Comment