As someone who regularly flies between North America and Asia, I’ve tested nearly every major airline’s Premium Economy product. Japan Airlines (JAL) stands out, not because it’s flashy, but because it delivers one of the most comfortable, understated, and intelligently designed experiences at 35,000 feet.
On recent flights between Los Angeles and Tokyo, and again from London to Haneda, I experienced JAL’s Premium Economy across both Boeing 777-300ER and 787-9 aircraft. The question: does it justify the upgrade from Economy, and can it compete with peers like ANA, EVA Air, or Singapore?
The short answer: yes, for long-haul travelers seeking comfort without the Business Class price tag.
Where Is JAL Premium Economy Available?
Japan Airlines offers Premium Economy on its international wide-body fleet, primarily:
- Boeing 777-300ER
- Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 Dreamliners
You’ll find this cabin class on key long-haul routes such as:
- Tokyo to New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco
- Tokyo to London, Paris, and Frankfurt
- Tokyo to Sydney and select Southeast Asian routes
Be aware: not all 787-8 aircraft are equipped with Premium Economy, so always check the seat map before booking.
What Makes JAL Premium Economy Different?
The moment you enter the Premium Economy cabin on JAL, it’s clear this is not just extra legroom Economy. It’s a dedicated, separate cabin with its own seats, service level, and ground privileges, which already puts it ahead of many U.S. and European airlines.
Here’s what stands out:
- Wider seats with more recline
- Footrests and leg rests for every seat
- Dedicated check-in counters (at select airports)
- Access to JAL Sakura Lounges (on select fares/routes)
- Priority boarding and baggage handling
- Enhanced meals and upgraded drink service
- Noise-cancelling headphones
- Larger entertainment screens
Seat Comfort: Arguably the Best Premium Economy Seat in the Sky
In all my long-haul flying, JAL’s Premium Economy seat is the one that made me forget I wasn’t in Business Class. The seats are custom-designed and do not intrude on the space behind you when reclining, a unique sliding shell design exclusive to JAL.
Seat Specs:
| Feature | Value |
| Seat Pitch | 42 inches |
| Seat Width | 19.3 inches |
| Recline | 10–11 inches (shell type) |
| Legroom | Best-in-class |
| Configuration | 2-4-2002 |
Compared to typical Premium Economy seat pitch (which is usually 38 inches), JAL gives you 42 inches, more than many short-haul Business Class products. The sliding shell seat design allows you to recline without affecting the person behind you, which enhances privacy and comfort for overnight flights.
You’ll also find a large, fold-out leg rest and footrest, wide armrests, adjustable headrests, and ample underseat storage. Power outlets and USB charging are included at every seat.
Cabin Features and Amenities
JAL doesn’t just upgrade the seat, it refines the entire experience.
What’s Included
- Dedicated cabin with curtains and reduced foot traffic
- Priority check-in and boarding (after Business)
- Two free checked bags (up to 23kg each)
- Slippers, noise-reducing headphones, and a large pillow
- 110V power outlet + USB port at every seat
- 15.6-inch touchscreen IFE system with hundreds of titles
Cabin lighting is gentle, the color palette feels premium, and seat dividers offer a surprising amount of personal space, even in the center seats.
Dining and Drinks: Elevated but Not Business Class
Meals in JAL Premium Economy are a clear upgrade from Economy. On my Tokyo–New York flight, we were served two hot meals, both with Japanese and Western options. I chose the grilled mackerel with rice and miso soup, and it was presented elegantly with fresh sides and Japanese pickles.
What to Expect:
- Two full meal services on long-haul flights
- High-quality Japanese and Western options
- Alcoholic drinks included (wine, beer, Japanese whisky, sake)
- Snacks and drinks available between meals
- Hot towels before meals (a signature Japanese touch)
While you don’t get Business Class tableware or course-by-course service, the quality of ingredients and presentation is better than most competitors’ Premium Economy catering.
On my LAX–NRT flight, I had Japanese-style braised beef with miso vegetables, served with rice, miso soup, a side salad, and cheesecake. Portion size and presentation were solid, and the drinks were proactively offered by attentive staff.
Entertainment and Amenities
Japan Airlines’ inflight entertainment system, MAGIC-VI, is available in Premium Economy with a 12.1-inch HD touchscreen, noise-cancelling headphones, and a wired remote control.
IFE and Connectivity
- Large HD touchscreen with English/Japanese interface
- Extensive library: Japanese cinema, Hollywood films, TV, games
- Noise-canceling headphones (better than Economy but not Business quality)
- Free Wi-Fi vouchers sometimes offered to Premium passengers (varies by route)
- Paid Wi-Fi: Starts at ~$10 for 1 hour, $18 for entire flight
- Over 100 movies (Japanese, Hollywood, Korean, Chinese)
- TV shows, music, games, and live flight tracking
- Multiple language options, including English, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean
The amenity kit includes:
- Moisturizing mask
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Eye mask
- Earplugs
- Slippers (a uniquely Japanese comfort item)
Blankets and pillows in Premium Economy are larger and more comfortable than in Economy, making rest much easier on overnight flights.
Ground Services and Lounge Access
One of the unique advantages of flying JAL Premium Economy, on full-fare tickets or long-haul routes from Japan, is lounge access.
- At Tokyo Haneda and Narita, Premium Economy passengers get access to the Sakura Lounge, which features hot meals, showers, and comfortable workspaces.
- Priority check-in and Group 3 boarding are standard.
- Two checked bags (23 kg each) are included with your fare.
The ground experience adds significant value, especially for business travelers who don’t quite need the full Business Class treatment.
How Does It Compare to Other Premium Economy Products?
JAL’s Premium Economy consistently ranks among the best globally. Here’s how it stacks up:
| Airline | Seat Pitch | Seat Width | Recline | Lounge Access | Shell Seat | Notable Advantage |
| JAL | 42″ | 19.3″ | 10–11″ | Yes (select routes) | Yes | Best legroom, shell seat |
| ANA | 38″ | 19.5″ | 8″–9″ | No | No | Quiet cabin, great food |
| Singapore Airlines | 38″ | 19.5″ | 8″–9″ | No | No | Excellent service |
| British Airways | 38″ | 18.5″ | 8″ | No | No | Widely available |
| Lufthansa | 38″ | 18–19″ | 8″ | No | No | Consistent product |
JAL clearly leads in seat pitch, foot support, and overall comfort, especially for overnight long-haul flights. The shell seat design alone makes it easier to sleep without being disturbed, or disturbing someone else.
Pricing: Is It Worth the Upgrade?
Prices vary widely by season and route. On average, JAL Premium Economy costs:
- 30%–60% more than Economy
- 40%–70% less than Business Class
Sample Roundtrip Prices (USD):
| Route | Economy | Premium Economy | Business Class |
| Los Angeles – Tokyo | $980 | $1,420 | $4,250 |
| New York – Tokyo | $1,150 | $1,680 | $4,600 |
| London – Tokyo | $1,020 | $1,590 | $3,900 |
If you value comfort, sleep quality, baggage perks, and lounge access, Premium Economy justifies the extra $400–$700 on most long-haul flights. Especially for flights over 10 hours, the difference in rest and recovery is significant.
Who Should Fly Japan Airlines Premium Economy?
Best For:
- Long-haul leisure travelers seeking better rest
- Tall passengers who need legroom
- Frequent flyers who don’t want to spend on Business
- JAL Mileage Bank or Oneworld members looking for upgrade value
Less Ideal For:
- Passengers on tight budgets
- Travelers needing lounge access included
- Flyers on short or regional routes where upgrade benefits are marginal
Is JAL Premium Economy Worth It?
Yes, Japan Airlines Premium Economy is absolutely worth the upgrade, especially on long-haul or overnight flights. With best-in-class seat comfort, quiet cabin ambiance, refined Japanese hospitality, and thoughtful extras like slippers, shell seats, and lounge access (in many cases), it delivers more value than almost any other Premium Economy product in the sky.
If Business Class is out of reach and Economy feels like a stretch for your body, JAL Premium Economy is the sweet spot, especially if you appreciate cultural precision, comfort engineering, and a peaceful flying environment.
Frequently Asked Questions About JAL Premium Economy
Does Premium Economy get lounge access on Japan Airlines?
Not by default. You’ll need status or a paid lounge pass.
Are the seats in JAL Premium Economy lie-flat?
No, they are reclining shell seats, not lie-flat, but highly ergonomic and spacious.
Can I upgrade to Premium Economy using miles?
Yes, with JAL Mileage Bank, AAdvantage, or Oneworld programs. Award space is often available 30–60 days before departure.
Do you get free alcohol in Premium Economy?
Yes. Beer, wine, whiskey, sake, and soft drinks are all complimentary.
Is Premium Economy a separate cabin on JAL?
Yes. It’s behind Business Class and ahead of Economy, with curtains and dedicated lavatories.