Economy class on Japan Airlines is widely seen as one of the best in the industry, at least when it comes to the hard product. Passengers can expect good legroom and more space compared to many other airlines and their economy class seats.
I’ve flown economy on JAL many times, most of these being 12, 13, and 14 hour long-haul flights. They can still get tiring, but it’s noticeably better flying them instead of some other airlines. To put these seats into perspective, the 33-34 inches of pitch you get on JAL is considered an extra legroom seat on American, Delta, and United.
Because of their stellar economy class seats, premium economy is in an interesting position. They still offer quality seats, especially on their new A350-1000. Still, I have to change my thought process a little bit when thinking about purchasing premium economy because their economy class seats are already pretty good.
Let’s go over a few things that I consider when looking at the differences of these two seats.
Legroom
As mentioned, economy class on Japan Airlines offers a generous 33-34 inches of pitch, making it one of the best in the industry. If you’re used to flying the US legacy carriers, you may want to think twice about splurging or upgrading just for legroom, since these seats offer equivalent legroom to extra legroom seats. Those who typically opt for Main Cabin Extra, Comfort Plus, or Economy Plus won’t have any need to upgrade on JAL.
That’s not to say legroom on premium economy isn’t anything special. Here, you’ll have 42 inches of pitch, more than enough on a long-haul flight.
With that said, the shell seats JAL has in premium economy will diminish a bit of the space when you recline.
Ultimately, 42 inches vs 33-34 inches of pitch is a difference, speaking from experience. I’ve had many instances flying these seats where I was able to enjoy good sleep (for airplane standards). Even when I’m just wanting to lounge around on my phone or the IFE, the extra space makes it better.
In addition to the legroom, you do get a bigger seat width which can help you find a comfortable position.
Lounge Access
Premium economy on Japan Airlines does get you lounge access! This is an underrated perk that you don’t often see when flying some other airlines.
Note that lounge access here isn’t anything if you already have Oneworld Sapphire status. Either way, this is a great plus that many will get just for flying premium economy.
It obviously doesn’t make sense to buy to premium economy just for lounge access, but you can see that these extra benefits add up.
Related: Review, Greenwich Lounge JFK (AA/BA Business Class)
Food
Food is probably the most disappointing part about JAL’s premium economy. It’s exactly the same as what’s served in economy class, with the same presentation and all. I guess the meals get served a bit earlier due to being more towards the front of the plane? But that’s basically all the difference.
This is a meal on Delta Premium Select, for comparison. US carriers have better presentation, and often a better meal. JAL’s economy class meals, although the high reputation, I find can be a hit or miss.
You do have an option for cup noodles during the flight though.
Overall Comfort
Overall, I think the premium economy experience is significantly better, especially on the new Airbus A350-1000s. The space, lounge access, and comfortable recline make a huge difference. Passengers value comfort the longer a flight is, and JAL’s vast network with many long-haul flights makes these seats more valuable.
My take is that it’s worth it on long-haul flights and overnight flights. I wouldn’t pay for them on an 8-hour daytime flight (Japan – Southeast Asia, for example) where I know I’m not going to sleep. It’s very much worth it on long-haul, 12+ hour flights (especially overnights) instead. Economy class on Japan Airlines is good, but there’s only so much an airline can do when it comes to long-haul flights.
All photos taken by the author.
