Japan Airlines premium economy review

Stepping onto a long-haul flight can often feel like a trade-off: do you endure the confines of economy for the sake of your budget, or splurge on business class for ultimate comfort? For many travelers, there's a sweet spot in between, offering enhanced space and amenities without the hefty price tag. That sweet spot is premium economy, and Japan Airlines (JAL) is often lauded for its offering in this cabin class. But does it truly deliver on its promise of a superior travel experience?

This comprehensive Japan Airlines premium economy review will delve into every aspect of JAL's premium economy, helping you decide if it's the right choice for your next international journey.

Why Choose Premium Economy for Your Next Flight?

Before we dive into the specifics of JAL, let's consider why premium economy has become such a popular option. It bridges the gap between standard economy and business class, providing a significant upgrade in comfort and service for a fraction of the cost of a business class ticket. For long-haul flights, especially those over eight hours, the difference in comfort can be truly transformative, allowing you to arrive at your destination feeling more refreshed and ready to explore.

Japan Airlines Premium Economy: What to Expect

Japan Airlines has consistently ranked among the top airlines for its premium economy product, even winning Skytrax's "World's Best Premium Economy Class" award in 2024. So, what makes it stand out?

Seat Comfort & Space

One of the most crucial aspects of any flight is the seat itself, and JAL's premium economy seats are designed with passenger comfort in mind. You can expect a generous 19 inches of width between armrests and a class-leading 42 inches of pitch (legroom), which is among the most spacious in the industry. This extra room makes a noticeable difference, allowing you to stretch out more comfortably.

A key feature of JAL's premium economy seats is their "fixed-back shell" design. This means that when the person in front of you reclines, their seat doesn't intrude into your personal space, a significant advantage over traditional economy seats. The recline itself is substantial, often featuring a motorized recline and leg rests, along with adjustable footrests, to help you find your ideal position for relaxation or sleep.

Depending on the aircraft, the cabin configuration is typically 2-4-2 on Boeing 777s and 2-3-2 on Boeing 787s, offering plenty of two-seat window-aisle pairs for couples. On newer aircraft like the Airbus A350-1000, some two-seat sections even feature sliding privacy screens, adding a "modicum of personal space". While bulkhead seats offer exceptional legroom, be aware that their tray tables might be smaller.

In-Flight Entertainment

Keeping entertained on a long flight is essential, and JAL's premium economy doesn't disappoint. Passengers enjoy large personal touchscreen displays, ranging from 12.1 inches on older aircraft to an impressive 16 inches with 4K resolution on the newer A350-1000s. These screens are responsive and offer a smooth user interface.

You'll also be provided with high-quality, noise-canceling headphones, a definite upgrade from standard economy offerings. Beyond movies and TV shows, the system often includes games and music, and you'll find convenient amenities like USB ports, AV inputs, and laptop power ports at your seat. While the entertainment selection itself can sometimes be "a bit lackluster" compared to some competitors, the quality of the display and sound system enhances the viewing experience.

Dining Experience

This is one area where JAL's premium economy can sometimes surprise passengers. While many airlines offer a dedicated premium economy meal service, JAL often serves the same main meal as economy class. However, there are notable enhancements that elevate the experience. You'll enjoy additional perks such as complimentary alcoholic beverages, including wine, beer, and spirits, available throughout the flight. Furthermore, premium economy passengers can request "Udon de SKY" cup noodles on demand, a popular and comforting snack. Some reviews also highlight "upgraded menu selections curated by top chefs" and "better presentation" with both Japanese and Western meal options.

So, while the core meal might be familiar, the added drink options and on-demand snacks certainly make for a more enjoyable dining experience.

Amenities & Service

Upon boarding, you'll find a thoughtful array of amenities waiting at your seat. These typically include a lightweight fleece blanket, a pillow, comfortable slippers, and a comprehensive amenity kit. The amenity kit usually contains a dental kit (toothbrush and toothpaste), foam earplugs, an eye mask, and a unique "moisture mask" designed to prevent your nose and mouth from drying out during the flight. Some flights might even surprise you with a self-heating eye mask.

Beyond these standard offerings, JAL is known for its attentive service. Passengers can also request items like medical supplies (pain relievers, motion sickness relievers), bamboo foot massagers, and even postcards and pens.

Lounge Access & Priority Services

One of the most valuable perks of flying JAL premium economy is the access to airport services that streamline your journey.

• Dedicated Check-in & Priority Boarding: You'll have access to exclusive Premium Economy class check-in counters at major Japanese airports like Narita, Haneda, Kansai, and Chubu Centrair. At other airports, you can use the Business Class counters, helping you bypass long lines. Priority boarding is also typically included, allowing you to settle in before the main rush.
• Priority Baggage Service: Your checked luggage will receive priority tags, ensuring it's among the first to arrive at baggage claim upon arrival, similar to First and Business Class passengers.
• Lounge Access: This is a significant benefit that sets JAL apart from many other airlines' premium economy offerings. Premium Economy passengers generally have access to JAL's Sakura Lounges at various airports, including Tokyo-Narita, Tokyo-Haneda, Nagoya, Osaka, Honolulu, and San Francisco. It's worth noting that while often included, lounge access can sometimes depend on the specific fare type or frequent flyer status, or it might be available for purchase separately. It's always a good idea to confirm this for your specific route and ticket.

Is Japan Airlines Premium Economy Worth the Upgrade?

The question of value always comes down to individual priorities and budget. Japan Airlines premium economy fares are generally "roughly double those of economy". However, for many, the enhanced comfort and array of perks make the upgrade well worth the additional expense, especially on long-haul international flights.

Consider these points:

• Space and Comfort: The significantly increased legroom, wider seats, and the fixed-back shell design offer a much more comfortable experience than standard economy, allowing for better rest and reduced fatigue on long journeys.
• Airport Experience: Priority check-in, security (at some airports), and baggage handling significantly reduce stress and waiting times at the airport.
• Lounge Access: The ability to relax in a lounge before your flight, with complimentary food, beverages, and Wi-Fi, is a substantial benefit that can transform your pre-flight experience.
• Onboard Amenities: The quality amenity kit, noise-canceling headphones, and improved entertainment system add to the overall enjoyment of the flight.

While the food service might not be a dramatic upgrade from economy in terms of main meal quality, the overall package of seat comfort, amenities, and priority services often makes JAL premium economy feel like a "near-business class experience at a fraction of the cost".

Tips for Booking JAL Premium Economy

• Book Early: Premium economy cabins are typically smaller than economy, and seats can fill up quickly, especially on popular routes. Booking in advance can help you secure the best prices and seat availability.
• Check Aircraft Type: If possible, try to fly on JAL's newer aircraft, such as the Airbus A350-1000, which feature the latest and most comfortable premium economy seats with motorized recline and larger screens.
• Consider Upgrades: If you're a JAL Mileage Bank member or part of the Oneworld alliance, explore options for using points or bidding for upgrades from economy to premium economy.
• Verify Lounge Access: While generally included, always double-check the lounge access policy for your specific fare and route, especially if it's a key deciding factor for you.

Conclusion

Japan Airlines premium economy offers a compelling proposition for travelers seeking a more comfortable and less stressful journey without the full expense of business class. With its industry-leading seat pitch, thoughtful amenities, and valuable airport priority services including lounge access, JAL's premium economy truly elevates the long-haul flying experience. While the dining might be a mixed bag depending on your expectations, the overall value proposition is strong, making it a highly recommended option for those looking to make their journey as enjoyable as their destination.

Have you flown Japan Airlines premium economy? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is JAL Premium Economy worth the extra cost compared to economy?

A1: For many travelers, yes. Japan Airlines premium economy offers significantly more legroom (42 inches of pitch), wider seats, a fixed-back shell design for undisturbed recline, and enhanced amenities like noise-canceling headphones and a comprehensive amenity kit. It also includes priority airport services and lounge access, which collectively justify the higher fare, especially for long-haul flights.

Q2: Do Japan Airlines Premium Economy passengers get lounge access?

A2: Yes, Japan Airlines Premium Economy passengers generally have access to JAL's Sakura Lounges at various airports, including Tokyo-Narita, Tokyo-Haneda, Nagoya, Osaka, Honolulu, and San Francisco. Additionally, they benefit from dedicated check-in counters and priority baggage handling. However, it's always advisable to confirm lounge access policies for your specific fare and route, as there can be exceptions.

Q3: What is the food like in Japan Airlines Premium Economy?

A3: While the main meal in Japan Airlines Premium Economy is often the same as what is served in economy class, there are notable additions. Premium Economy passengers receive complimentary alcoholic beverages, including spirits and prosecco, and can request "Udon de SKY" cup noodles on demand. Some reviews also mention enhanced presentation and a wider selection of drinks compared to economy.

Q4: How do JAL Premium Economy seats compare to other airlines?

A4: Japan Airlines Premium Economy seats are highly regarded in the industry, often cited as among the best. They offer a class-leading 42 inches of pitch and a comfortable 19 inches of width. The unique fixed-back shell design ensures that the person in front reclining does not invade your space, a feature not commonly found in other premium economy products. JAL even won Skytrax's "World's Best Premium Economy Class" award in 2024.