Flying JAL Business Class: Inside Japan’s A350 Suites to Tokyo

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Flying Japan Airlines business class changed my entire perspective on long-haul travel. After 13 hours in their Sky Suite from New York to Tokyo, I stepped off the plane feeling refreshed instead of my usual zombie self. The Japanese attention to detail is real, from the perfectly presented kaiseki meals to flight attendants who somehow knew what I needed before I did.

JAL has captured authentic Japanese hospitality at 35,000 feet. The service rivals what you’d experience at top restaurants in Tokyo, and in 2026, they’re taking things even further with new aircraft and routes. If you’re wondering whether the premium price tag is worth it for your next trip to Asia, let me walk you through exactly what to expect.

My #1 tip to find cheap JAL Business Class tickets

Looking for a steal on Japan Airlines business class tickets? Before jumping into the article, I first wanted to give you this insider tip to find cheap airfare on business class flights.

For years, I’ve been using this site called Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights), 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.

Their $49/year premium version is well worth it- just one discounted flight pays for the whole thing. I recommend trying the free trial and using my special discount code JON20 to save 20%!

And if you’re into business/first class, you’ll want to sign up for their Elite version. Last year, this service saved me $2,750 on a first class flight and $1,500 on a business class flight. At just $199 year year, trust me, it’s a small price for massive savings.

What’s new in JAL business class for 2026?

I’ve been watching JAL closely over the past year, and they’re stepping up their game in ways that matter to business class travelers. Between new aircraft with private suites, fresh routes to major hubs, and some thoughtful service upgrades, there’s a lot happening. Let me walk you through what’s changing.

New routes worth checking out

JAL just brought back flights from Tokyo Narita to Delhi in January 2026 after being gone for six years. This is great if you’re trying to get between India and North America because Tokyo makes a really convenient stopover. They’re flying the Boeing 787-8 daily, and since they partnered with IndiGo, you can easily connect to pretty much anywhere in India.

The Tokyo Narita to Chicago route started last May and it’s been a game changer for anyone heading to the Midwest. I’ve always found it annoying that there weren’t more direct options to Chicago from Asia, so this one really fills a gap. Plus, since it’s a joint venture with American Airlines, you can actually find decent award availability. Melbourne also went from three flights a week to daily service back in October. If Australia’s on your bucket list, this makes planning way easier.

The A350-1000 is what you really want

JAL will have 11 Airbus A350-1000s flying by March 2026, and this is the aircraft you should be aiming for when you book. The business class on this plane is completely different from their other products. Each seat is basically a private suite with a closing door, you get a massive 24-inch 4K screen, and the cabin is noticeably quieter.

Right now the A350-1000 flies from Tokyo Haneda to New York JFK twice daily. It also flies once daily to Los Angeles, Dallas, London, and Paris. That Paris route just got upgraded to daily A350-1000 service in November 2025, which is great news if you’re flying to Europe.

Here’s my honest advice. When you’re searching for JAL business class tickets, look specifically for these five routes on the A350-1000. The difference is massive. Check the seat map when booking and make sure you see that 1-2-1 layout with 54 business class seats. If you see a 2-2-2 configuration, that’s their older product and it’s just not the same experience.

What’s happening with lounges

JAL started offering paid access to their Sakura Lounge at Nagoya Chubu in April 2025. It’s about $82 per entry. Not exactly cheap, but useful if you need lounge access on a positioning flight.

The JAL SKY MUSEUM at Haneda got a full renovation and reopened in November. They extended the tours by 20 minutes and added some cool evening time slots where you can watch the sunset from the hangar. If you’re into aviation and have time to kill before your flight, it’s pretty fascinating.

Service improvements

JAL rolled out AI-powered systems for their cabin crew in October 2025. I know “AI” gets thrown around a lot these days, but what it actually means is the flight attendants have better tools to anticipate what passengers need. The service has always been good on JAL, but it’s gotten even more consistent.

JAL’s business class fleet: which aircraft should you book?

Not all JAL business class seats are created equal. I’ve flown several of their configurations over the years, and the experience varies dramatically depending on which plane you’re on. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect.

Airbus A350-1000

This is the one you want. JAL’s newest business class on the A350-1000 is world-class. You get 54 fully private suites arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, which means every single seat has direct aisle access and a door you can close. The suites feel like mini hotel rooms.

The 24-inch 4K entertainment screen is large, and the built-in headrest speakers are genius because you can ditch the headphones entirely if you want. The seat converts to a 78-inch fully flat bed, and I’ve slept better here than in some hotel beds.

This aircraft flies from Tokyo Haneda to New York JFK (twice daily), Los Angeles, Dallas, London Heathrow, and Paris. If your route has the A350-1000 available, book it. The difference is that significant.

Boeing 787-8, 787-9, and 777-300ER (JAL Sky Suite)

These are JAL’s workhorse long-haul aircraft, and the Sky Suite is still a very good product. You’ll find them arranged in a 2-2-2 configuration with privacy doors between seats. Each suite has a fully flat bed and direct aisle access, plus a 23-inch entertainment screen.

I’ve flown the Sky Suite to San Francisco, Boston, and London, and it’s comfortable and private. The catch is those middle seats. If you’re traveling solo, you definitely want a window seat. The middle pairs work fine for couples, but they’re not as private as the A350-1000 suites. These planes serve most of JAL’s other international routes including San Francisco, Boston, Seattle, and various European and Asian destinations.

Boeing 767-300ER (JAL Sky Suite II)

The 767 features a 1-2-1 reverse herringbone layout. This sounds good on paper because everyone gets direct aisle access. The seats do go fully flat and you get USB ports and 15-inch screens.

The problem is these seats feel noticeably less private than the newer products. There’s less personal space overall, and the 15-inch screen feels tiny compared to what you get on newer aircraft. These typically fly shorter regional routes to places like Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. It’s perfectly fine for a six-hour flight, but I wouldn’t choose it for anything longer if I had other options.

Boeing 787-9 (JAL Sky Suite III)

This is a different 787-9 configuration (JAL has two) with reverse herringbone seats in a 1-2-1 layout. Every seat gets direct aisle access and the privacy is pretty good because of the herringbone angle. You get a 17-inch screen and the seat adjusts well at any angle before converting to a fully flat bed. These mainly operate on shorter flights flights within Asia.

Skip if possible: Boeing 787-8 (JAL Shell Flat Neo)

The Shell Flat Neo seats are arranged 2-2-2 and they don’t recline to fully flat. For a daytime regional flight in Asia, it’s tolerable. For anything overnight or over six hours, you’ll wish you were on any other JAL business class product. The 15-inch screens and open layout are fine, but that not-quite-flat bed is a dealbreaker for me on longer flights.

Domestic flights only: Boeing 737-800 (JAL Skyluxe Seat)

These are domestic recliner seats in a 2-2 configuration. They’re comfortable for the two-hour Tokyo to Osaka hop, but this is basically domestic first class, not international business class. Don’t expect lie-flat beds or the full business class experience.

Ground experience when flying JAL business class

I’ve always believed the real test of a premium airline is what happens before you even sit down on the plane, and JAL mostly gets this right.

Check-in and priority access

Business class passengers get dedicated check-in counters at every JAL airport. At Tokyo Narita and Haneda, you’re through in minutes. You also get priority security lanes at Japanese airports. At US airports, you still get dedicated business class check-in, though the speed depends on how busy the airport is. You’ll use whatever priority security your status or TSA PreCheck provides.

Sakura Lounge at Tokyo Narita

This is JAL’s flagship lounge and one of the best airport lounges I’ve used. It’s spacious without feeling empty, flooded with natural light, and designed in a minimal Japanese style that makes an airport lounge feel calming rather than chaotic. On clear days you can see both Tokyo Skytree and Mount Fuji through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The windows also overlook the apron, so you can watch your A350 park while you eat.

The food is self-serve buffet style with both Japanese and Western options. It’s good quality but nothing mind-blowing. There’s a self-serve bar with a decent selection of wine, champagne, Japanese sake, and local beers. Spirits focus heavily on whisky. The lounge has plenty of seating, power outlets everywhere, and free Wi-Fi. There are some quiet corners if you want to work or rest, and the whole space is kept immaculately clean.

Sakura Lounge at Tokyo Haneda

Haneda has two Sakura Lounges in Terminal 3. Most business class passengers go to the standard lounge on the fourth floor. If the lounge attendant directs you to the Sky View lounge on the fifth floor instead, that’s the better option. The setup is similar to Narita, with self-serve food and bar, comfortable seating, good views of the runway.

JAL lounges outside Japan

JAL operates Sakura Lounges at Honolulu, San Francisco, Frankfurt, Bangkok, and Manila. They’re well-maintained and generally quieter than the big oneworld partner lounges, but they’re not on the same level as the Tokyo flagships. In April 2025, JAL started offering paid Sakura Lounge access at Nagoya Chubu for about $82 per entry. It’s expensive, but useful if you’re connecting through Chubu on a different airline or positioning flight.

Partner lounges everywhere else

At airports where JAL doesn’t have their own lounge, you’ll use oneworld partner lounges. In London it’s the British Airways Galleries. At US airports you get American Airlines Admirals Club or Flagship Lounge access. In Sydney it’s the Qantas lounge. Quality varies wildly. The Qantas lounge at LAX is actually quite nice and better than the American options there. The BA Galleries lounges at Heathrow are decent but often crowded.

Boarding

JAL boards business class first, immediately after anyone needing assistance. It’s organized and efficient. Gate agents are professional, announcements are clear in both Japanese and English, and you’re on the plane quickly.

JAL business class baggage allowance

Business class passengers get three checked bags at 70 lbs (32 kg) each. Each bag can’t exceed 80 inches in total dimensions (length plus height plus width). For carry-on, you get one bag up to 22 lbs (10 kg) plus a personal item like a laptop bag or handbag, with the carry-on limited to 45 inches total dimensions.

In-flight comfort and amenities

I’ve already covered the seat situation in detail earlier, but just to recap: if you can get on the A350-1000, do it. The private suites with doors make a massive difference. If not, the Sky Suite on the 787 or 777 is still very good. Avoid the Shell Flat Neo if you’re flying overnight.

In-flight entertainment

JAL’s entertainment system varies depending on the aircraft, but the A350-1000 has the best setup by far. You get a massive 24-inch 4K screen, which feels like watching a home theater. They provide Audio-Technica noise-canceling headphones that are fantastic quality. You can also connect your own headphones via Bluetooth.

The genius feature is the built-in speakers in the headrest. You can watch movies or listen to music without wearing headphones at all, which is brilliant if you find headphones uncomfortable on long flights. The sound quality is impressive.

On other aircraft like the 787 and 777 with Sky Suite, you get 23-inch screens. Still large, still good quality, just not quite as impressive as the A350-1000. The older Shell Flat Neo aircraft have 15-inch screens, which feel noticeably smaller, especially on longer flights.

The content selection is solid but not exceptional. You’ll find recent Hollywood releases, Japanese films, TV shows, e-books, and live TV on some routes. One nice touch is you can use the JAL app to resume watching a movie right where you left off on a previous flight, assuming you’re flying JAL regularly. The system also shows real-time camera views from the front and tail of the plane, plus flight tracking. I’m always glued to the tail camera during takeoff and landing!

Wi-Fi

JAL offers in-flight Wi-Fi on international flights for $18.80 for the entire flight with no data limits. It’s not free, which is disappointing when some competitors offer complimentary Wi-Fi in business class. The connection speed is good enough for email, messaging, and light web browsing.

Amenity kits and comfort items

JAL partners with HERALBONY for their amenity kits, which come in six different colorful designs. Inside you get the basics: toothbrush set, moisture face mask, earplugs, and eye mask. On the A350-1000, you also get pajamas and a cardigan designed specifically for comfort at altitude. All business class seats come with a decent pillow and blanket. You get slippers on all international business class flights.

The little things that matter

JAL pays attention to details most airlines skip. There are usually small bottles of water already at your seat when you board. The cabin lighting is thoughtfully programmed to help with jet lag. Flight attendants come around with hot towels shortly after takeoff, which is such a simple thing but feels so refreshing.

The lavatories have bidets, even in business class. If you’ve never used a Japanese toilet, you’re in for an experience. They’re kept spotlessly clean throughout the flight, and there are actual toiletries available, not just hand soap.

One thing I really appreciate is JAL’s restraint. They’re not constantly bothering you with service or announcements. Once you’re settled and fed, they leave you alone unless you press the call button. For someone who just wants to sleep on a long flight, this is perfect.

On-board dining in JAL business class

The food on JAL is one of the highlights of flying them. They partner with top Japanese chefs to create menus that change seasonally, and you can tell the difference. You’re getting carefully prepared dishes with premium ingredients like snow crab, black cod, and abalone when they’re in season.

The menu splits into Japanese and Western options, both served as full multi-course meals. I always go Japanese because that’s where JAL really shines. The presentation alone is impressive, with each dish arranged beautifully in traditional bento-style boxes. Even the smaller details like the pickles and rice quality are noticeably better than most airlines.

There’s also an “Anytime You Wish” menu you can order throughout the flight. This is perfect if you wake up hungry mid-flight or want a second meal before landing. The selection includes light options like noodles, sandwiches, and snacks.

For drinks, JAL takes their beverage program seriously. Wine selection is curated by sommelier Motohiro Okoshi. The champagne selection varies by route and season. You might get Charles Heidsieck, Delamotte, or other quality brands. It’s good champagne, just not the ultra-premium Salon they serve in First Class. The Japanese sake and shochu selection is extensive and changes seasonally.

If you have dietary requirements, JAL handles them well. You can pre-order vegan, vegetarian, and other special meals supervised by renowned chefs. They also introduced healthier, sustainable menu options that are surprisingly good.

JAL business class vs. JAL first class

JAL first class is objectively better and the A350-1000 first class suites are massive. You get a 43-inch entertainment screen compared to the 24-inch in business, more storage space, and the suite itself is about 50% larger. The bed converts to either a single or double size. But honestly, the business class suite with its closing door already feels incredibly private and spacious. The size difference isn’t life-changing.

The lounge experience is where first class pulls ahead most noticeably. At Tokyo Narita and Haneda, first class passengers get access to the exclusive First Class lounge with the famous made-to-order sushi bar. Business class passengers use the Sakura Lounge, which is still excellent but doesn’t have the sushi bar or the same level of exclusivity.

On board, the food quality is similar between the two cabins. The main difference is Salon champagne in first (which is rare and special) versus good but not exceptional champagne in business. You also get slightly more premium protein options in first, but the preparation and presentation are nearly identical.

The cost difference is significant. Cash fares for first class typically run double what business costs, sometimes more on popular routes like New York or London. Using miles, you’re looking at about 80,000 AAdvantage miles for business class versus 110,000 for first class from the US to Japan. That’s 30,000 miles you could use for another trip entirely.

My honest advice? If the price difference is under $1,000 or you have miles burning a hole in your account, go for first class. The lounge experience alone makes it worthwhile. But if business class is significantly cheaper and you’re paying cash, I wouldn’t hesitate to book business.

JAL business class vs rival products

Everyone wants to know how JAL stacks up against the competition. Here’s my honest take after flying these airlines across the Pacific.

JAL vs ANA

This is the real comparison if you’re flying to Japan. Both are exceptional Japanese carriers with impeccable service, so honestly you can’t lose either way. ANA’s “The Room” business class is stunning when you first see it, with some of the widest seats in the sky and a layout that makes you feel like you have an entire studio apartment.

But JAL wins on the things that matter for a long flight. I sleep better on JAL, consistently. The bedding is superior, the cabin feels quieter, and something about the seat design works better for rest. The food also feels more authentically Japanese and less “internationalized” than ANA’s approach, which I appreciate. Both have excellent service, but JAL’s crews feel slightly warmer and more natural rather than formally polished.

• My take: If you want maximum space to spread out and work, go ANA. If you want to sleep well and arrive refreshed, I’m booking JAL every time.

JAL vs Singapore Airlines

Singapore gets hyped as one of the world’s best airlines, and their business class is objectively excellent. Bigger seats than JAL, larger bed, and that KrisWorld entertainment system is unmatched. The Book the Cook pre-order meal service is genuinely special, and Singapore executes everything with precision.

In my view, Singapore sometimes feels too perfect. JAL’s service feels more human and genuine. The food on JAL is also more focused and seasonal instead of trying to please every palate. Singapore is technically superior in many ways, but JAL just feels more comfortable and real.

• My take: If you want technical perfection and maximum space, Singapore wins. If you want to actually relax and enjoy the flight rather than just be impressed by it, I prefer JAL.

JAL vs Cathay Pacific

Cathay Pacific’s business class was the gold standard for Pacific travel for years. The newer cabins on their A350s and refreshed 777s are well-designed, and Hong Kong works brilliantly as a connection point for Southeast Asia. But post-pandemic, Cathay’s become inconsistent.

JAL has pulled clearly ahead. The A350-1000 with those private door suites is simply better than anything Cathay flies right now. Food quality is more reliably excellent on JAL, and the service maintains that high standard every single flight. Cathay’s Hong Kong lounges are still world-class and better than JAL’s international lounges, so if you’re connecting through Asia and care deeply about lounge quality, that’s one point for Cathay. But in the air, JAL is the stronger choice.

• My take: If you’re connecting through Hong Kong and love those lounges, Cathay works. For everything else, especially if you can get the A350-1000, JAL is the clear winner right now.

How to book JAL business class for less

JAL business class doesn’t have to cost $6,000 roundtrip. With some flexibility and the right approach, you can get on that A350-1000 without emptying your savings account.

Use American Airlines AAdvantage miles (the sweet spot)

This is hands down the best value for booking JAL business class if you’re based in the US. American charges just 60,000 AAdvantage miles one-way for business class between North America and Japan, or 80,000 for first class. That pricing hasn’t changed in nearly a decade, which is remarkable in the world of airline devaluations.

The catch is that JAL releases limited partner award space, so you need to be strategic. The booking window opens 360 days in advance at 9am Japan time, which is 5pm PST or 8pm EST the evening before during daylight savings. Set an alarm and search right when the calendar opens for the best shot at availability. I’ve also found decent last-minute availability one to two weeks before departure when JAL releases unsold seats.

You can’t always see JAL space on the American website directly. Use the British Airways site to search for availability first (you don’t need to log in), then call American to book what you find. It’s an extra step but worth it. American also tends to show their own flights first, which can be frustrating, so scroll down or filter carefully.

Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards is another solid option

Alaska charges 60,000 to 75,000 Atmos Rewards points for business class between North America and Japan depending on distance. The Alaska website has better search functionality than American’s, and you can book JAL awards online directly without calling. One major advantage with Alaska is they allow stopovers even on one-way awards, which adds significant value if you want to explore multiple Japanese cities. The downside is intra-Asia JAL awards on Alaska must be booked at least 72 hours in advance, so last-minute flexibility is limited.

Transfer flexible credit card points

If you don’t have AAdvantage or Alaska miles, several major credit card programs transfer to partners that can book JAL. American Express, Chase, Citi, Capital One, and Bilt all transfer to at least one program that books JAL business class. The sweet spot here is Cathay Pacific Asia Miles for flights under 5,000 miles (like Tokyo to various Asian cities), which cost just 50,000 Asia Miles in business class. F

or longer US to Japan routes, you’re better off transferring to American or Alaska. JAL’s own Mileage Bank program partners with Bilt, Capital One, and Marriott Bonvoy, though the redemption rates aren’t usually as competitive. Marriott transfers to JAL at 3 to 1 with a bonus 5,000 miles when you transfer 60,000 Marriott points at once, so that helps offset the poor ratio slightly.

Watch for cash fare sales (and use Going to find them)

For straight cash tickets, JAL occasionally runs promotions on business class. I’ve seen New York to Tokyo drop to $4,800 to $5,000 roundtrip during sale periods. The cheapest months to fly are typically May, September, and October. Avoid December and peak summer if you want better pricing. Booking 60 to 90 days out usually gets you the best fares before last-minute prices spike.

Here’s where Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) comes in. Instead of manually checking fares every day hoping for a deal, I let Going do the work. They monitor thousands of routes and email me when business class fares drop significantly or when mistake fares pop up. I’ve used them for years and they’ve saved me thousands on premium cabin tickets.

You choose your departure airports and they send alerts when deals appear, including occasional JAL business class sales. If you’re flexible on dates and open to connecting through different airports, this is one of the easiest ways to grab a business class fare that should’ve cost way more. You can try it free, or use my code JON20 for 20% off a premium membership.

• Looking to find Japan Airlines business class deals for under $2,500 roundtrip? You’ll want to sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (Going.com). While the free version is great for economy deals, the Elite version is what you’ll need to find cheap business and first class deals.