Japan Airlines Business Class: A Complete Guide to Luxury Travel

Japan Airlines Business Class sets the gold standard for premium air travel, offering lie-flat seats, gourmet Japanese cuisine, and priority airport perks. Learn why Japan Airlines Business Class is a top choice for luxury travelers and how to book the best seats and deals for your next trip.

Table of contents: 

• Introduction 
• Japan airlines business class routes and aircraft
• Cabin layout and seating arrangements
• The airport experience
• In-flight experience
• Comparing japan airlines business class to first class
• How to book Japan Airlines Business Class
• Final thoughts 

Japan Airlines operates flights to the United States from ten cities, including New York (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), and Chicago (ORD). On these routes, passengers can expect to experience the airline’s top-tier business class product, known as the "Apex Suite." This seating arrangement is available on the Boeing 787-8, 787-9, and 777-300ER aircraft, all of which offer direct aisle access for every passenger.

The configuration of the seats varies depending on the aircraft. On the Boeing 787, the business class cabin is arranged in a 2-2-2 layout, while the larger Boeing 777 features a 2-3-2 configuration. Although this may seem less private compared to airlines offering a 1-2-1 layout, Japan Airlines has designed its seats to ensure all passengers have unimpeded access to the aisle. 

Window seats, in particular, provide a high level of privacy and are accompanied by three windows, offering a sense of space akin to first class. However, storage space in these seats is somewhat limited compared to aisle seats, which include a small cubby for personal items.

Japan Airlines (JAL), one of Japan’s two major international carriers, is renowned for its exceptional service, comfortable seating, and high-quality dining options across all cabins. Among its offerings, Japan Airlines Business Class stands out as a premium experience, particularly on long-haul routes such as those between the United States and Japan. 

This guide provides an overview of what passengers can expect when flying in Japan Airlines Business Class, from the airport experience to the in-flight amenities.

Types of Japan Airlines Business Class

Japan Airlines (JAL) offers different types of business class experiences tailored to various travel needs. Two of the most notable options are Sky Suite and Class J, each providing a distinct level of comfort, amenities, and service depending on the route and aircraft type.

Sky suite: Sky Suite is JAL’s premium business class offering, available on long-haul international flights. It is designed for maximum comfort, featuring fully flat seats and enhanced privacy. Sky Suite is available on aircraft such as the Boeing 777-300ER, Boeing 787, and select Airbus A350-1000. The key features of the Sky Suite include:

• Fully flat seats – The seats recline into a completely flat bed, ensuring a comfortable sleep experience on long-haul flights.
• Privacy and space – Each seat is configured to provide privacy, with partitions and a staggered layout for an uninterrupted travel experience.
• In-flight dining – Sky Suite passengers enjoy a gourmet dining experience featuring both Japanese and Western cuisine, with meals created by renowned chefs.
• Entertainment system – Large personal screens with a wide selection of films, television programmes, and music.
• Amenity kit – High-quality amenity kits with skincare products, sleep masks, and other essentials.
• Lounge access – Passengers receive access to JAL’s premium lounges at select airports.

Class J: Class J is a premium economy-style cabin available on JAL’s domestic flights within Japan. It offers an upgrade from economy class with enhanced comfort and space but does not provide the full luxury of an international business class experience. Class J is available on JAL’s domestic fleet, including the Boeing 737, 767, 777, and Airbus A350. The key features of Class J include:

• Wider seats – Class J seats are approximately 5 cm (2 inches) wider than standard economy seats, providing additional space.
• Extra legroom – The seats offer greater legroom compared to economy, making them ideal for domestic travellers seeking more comfort.
• Reclining seats – While not fully flat, the seats recline further than standard economy seats for a more relaxed journey.
• Affordable upgrade – Class J is available at a reasonable additional cost, making it an attractive option for domestic travellers wanting extra comfort.
• Priority boarding – While not as exclusive as Sky Suite, Class J passengers may receive some priority boarding benefits.

Japan airlines business class routes and aircraft

Japan Airlines operates its business class service across various aircraft, depending on the route. The airline primarily serves long-haul international destinations, connecting major cities in North America, Europe, and Asia with its hubs in Tokyo Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND). Some of the key routes include:

• New York (JFK) – Tokyo
• Los Angeles (LAX) – Tokyo
• Chicago (ORD) – Tokyo
• San Francisco (SFO) – Tokyo
• London (LHR) – Tokyo
• Paris (CDG) – Tokyo
• Sydney (SYD) – Tokyo

Japan Airlines operates different types of aircraft on these routes, each offering varying business class configurations:

• Boeing 777-300ER – Equipped with Apex Suites in a 2-3-2 configuration.
• Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 (Dreamliner) – Features a 2-2-2 configuration, ensuring aisle access for all passengers.
• Boeing 767 – Used mainly for regional flights, featuring a 1-2-1 staggered layout.
• Airbus A350-1000 – JAL’s newest aircraft, set to provide an upgraded business class experience.

Cabin layout and seating arrangements

Boeing 777-300ER (Apex Suites)

The Boeing 777-300ER is the flagship aircraft on long-haul routes to the United States and Europe. The business class cabin is arranged in a 2-3-2 configuration, with each seat offering direct aisle access. The Apex Suite design provides an added level of privacy, especially for window seat passengers.

• Seat width: 25.5 inches
• Bed length: 74 inches (fully flat)
• Storage: Small cubby space (window seats have limited storage)
• Privacy: High, especially for window seats

Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 (Dreamliner)

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner features a 2-2-2 configuration, with lie-flat seats. While this layout is different from the 1-2-1 setups seen on some airlines, Japan Airlines has designed the seats in a way that still allows uninterrupted aisle access.

• Seat width: 23 inches
• Bed length: 74 inches (fully flat)
• Privacy: Moderate, especially for middle-row passengers

Boeing 767

Primarily used on regional international flights, the Boeing 767 business class has a 1-2-1 configuration, allowing for direct aisle access for every passenger.

• Seat width: 20 inches
• Bed length: 74 inches
• Privacy: High

Airbus A350-1000

Set to enter service on the New York – Tokyo route, the A350-1000 is expected to feature a modern business class product, though details have yet to be confirmed.

The airport experience

Lounge access

Passengers travelling in Japan Airlines Business Class have access to the airline’s Sakura lounges, as well as Oneworld partner lounges at various airports worldwide. At JAL’s hubs in Tokyo (Narita and Haneda Airports), the Sakura lounges are particularly impressive. They feature expansive seating areas, tarmac views, and a wide selection of food and beverages. The menu includes both Japanese and Western-style dishes, with highlights such as JAL’s signature beef curry and freshly baked bread from Maison Kayser. Shower facilities and rest areas are also available, providing a comfortable space to relax before a flight.

At other airports, such as San Francisco (SFO) and Honolulu (HNL), Japan Airlines operates its own lounges. In locations where JAL does not have a dedicated lounge, business class passengers can access partner lounges, such as the American Airlines Flagship Lounge at Dallas (DFW), Los Angeles (LAX), and Chicago (ORD). These lounges offer a range of amenities, including hot and cold meals, self-serve bars, and shower suites.

Check-in and baggage allowance

Japan Airlines provides dedicated check-in lines for business class passengers at major airports, ensuring a streamlined and efficient process. Oneworld Emerald, Sapphire, or Ruby status holders can also use these priority lines. Business class passengers are entitled to a generous baggage allowance, with up to three checked bags permitted, each weighing up to 70 pounds. Luggage is tagged as priority, meaning it is among the first to arrive at the carousel upon landing.

In-flight experience

Seating

The seats in Japan Airlines Business Class are designed with comfort and functionality in mind. On the Boeing 777-300ER, the Apex Suite configuration offers 49 lie-flat seats in a 2-3-2 layout. Despite the shared configuration, each seat provides direct aisle access and ample space for taller passengers. The seats measure 25.5 inches in width and 74 inches in pitch, with a bed length of 74 inches. On the Boeing 787, the 2-2-2 configuration ensures a similar level of comfort, with 44 seats on the 787-9 and 38 on the 787-8.

For shorter flights within Asia, Japan Airlines operates a variety of aircraft, including the Boeing 767 and 777-200. While the seating on these routes may not be as luxurious as the Apex Suite, many still offer direct aisle access and lie-flat capabilities.

Amenities

Japan Airlines is known for its attention to detail when it comes to in-flight amenities. Business class passengers receive a well-stocked amenity kit in collaboration with French brand Maison Kitsuné, which includes skincare products from Shiseido. Passengers are also provided with plush slippers, noise-cancelling headphones, and a mattress pad for added comfort during long-haul flights. A cardigan-style pajama is offered for those who wish to change into more comfortable attire.

Dining

The dining experience in Japan Airlines Business Class is a highlight of the journey. Passengers can choose between a Western-style menu and a traditional Japanese set meal. The Japanese option, known as "Kaiseki," is particularly noteworthy. It begins with a selection of cold dishes, or "irodori gozen," featuring fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients. This is followed by a hot course, or "dainomono," which includes a main dish, miso soup, and rice. Mid-flight snacks, such as ramen, udon, and JAL’s signature beef curry, are also available.

The beverage selection is equally impressive, with a range of sake, Japanese whisky, wine, and champagne on offer. While the premium champagne is reserved for first class, the business class selection is still of high quality.

Entertainment and connectivity

Each seat is equipped with a personal entertainment system, offering a wide selection of films, TV shows, music, and games. The screen size varies depending on the aircraft, but all provide a clear and responsive interface. Wi-Fi is available for purchase on most long-haul flights, allowing passengers to stay connected during their journey.

Comparing japan airlines business class to first class

While Japan Airlines Business Class offers a high level of comfort and service, first class provides an even more personalised experience. First class cabins are smaller, with only eight seats on the Boeing 777-300ER, and feature more spacious seating arrangements. The dining options are elevated, with a focus on premium ingredients and bespoke dishes. First class passengers also have access to exclusive lounges in Tokyo, which include made-to-order sushi bars.

How to book Japan Airlines Business Class

Ticket prices: Fares for Japan Airlines Business Class vary based on route, seasonality, and booking time. A sample round-trip fare between New York (JFK) and Tokyo (NRT) typically ranges from £2,500 to £4,000.

Upgrade options: 

• Paid upgrades – Offered before departure at discounted rates.
• Bid upgrades – Available via JAL’s online system.
• Mileage upgrades – JAL Mileage Bank members can upgrade using 30,000+ miles on select routes.

Final thoughts 

Japan Airlines Business Class offers a well-rounded and luxurious travel experience, combining comfortable seating, exceptional service, and high-quality dining. Whether travelling for business or leisure, passengers can expect a seamless journey from check-in to landing. 

While it may not offer the same level of exclusivity as first class, Japan Airlines Business Class remains a strong contender in the premium travel market, particularly for those flying between the United States and Japan.